Vegetation removal necessary to access water main

Vegetation being removed at the entrance to Churchill Island is to allow Westernport Water access to undertake maintenance to the sole water main supplying Phillip Island.

Westernport Water’s acting Managing Director Graeme Rocke said “the water main was installed 30 years ago and since then vegetation has naturally re-established over the pipeline easement.

“The removal of the vegetation is necessary so we can undertake important maintenance to a section of the pipe and ensure safe and continuous supply of water to our customers on Phillip Island.

“A site assessment of the vegetation was undertaken in line with the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1989, which found 2 protected species.

“As a result, an application was lodged with the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning and a permit was granted to remove the vegetation from the easement.

Under the planning scheme, no permits were required with Bass Coast Shire or VicRoads, with both stakeholders involved in the assessment of the site at the intersection of Phillip Island Tourist road and the entrance to Churchill Island Newhaven.

Westernport Water also consulted with the Phillip Island Nature Park about ongoing works in this area to ensure appropriate measures are taken to minimise the impact.