Community Open Day + Tree Planting
As part of Council’s Earth Day celebrations, the Advanced Water Recycling Facility (AWRF) will be open to the public for a hands-on community education initiative, inviting residents to learn more about the new Parkes Water Recycling Scheme, and participate in a tree planting to rejuvenate the newly opened site.
The AWRF was constructed alongside the new Sewage Treatment Plant, and treats effluent to a high standard. It produces clean, safe, high quality recycled water to be used for irrigation.
The AWRF was completed for Phase 1 of the new Parkes Recycled Water Scheme at a cost of $5.9m. The design and construction created 61 local jobs and generated a local spend of 38% of the budget. Phase 2 of the Recycled Water Scheme is currently in development.
Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith OAM said, “Water security in a changing climate is a key issue facing many communities. This facility provides a tremendous benefit to the town, creating a local, drought-proof water supply while reducing environmental impacts.”
“We encourage anyone who is interested in learning more about Parkes’ award winning wastewater and water recycling facilities to come along and take part in the interactive tours and activities,” Mr Keith said.
The Open Day will be held on Saturday 21st April from 10am to 12pm at 84 Akuna Road, Parkes.
Activities include information sessions on the Recycled Water Scheme, tree planting local fuzzy box woodland species, and special “encore” tours of the Sewage Treatment Plant. Guided tours will be held every half hour between 10am and 11.30am. Participants must wear enclosed shoes, a hat, and bring gardening gloves. There will be giveaways and a light lunch for participants.
To pre-register email Raen.Fraser@parkes.nsw.gov.au or call 6861 2333. For more information visit www.parkes.nsw. gov.au.