Gunnedah Shire Council’s application to install standpipes has been successful under the Federal Government’s Drought Communities Program, with work to start next month.

Acting mayor Rob Hooke said the project would see standpipes equipped with a self-serve automated dispensing system to make it easier for people across the shire to access potable water for farming and domestic use (both small and large users).

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“This project was identified as a priority for the local community, which continues to be adversely affected by drought,” Cr Hooke said.

“This permanent water infrastructure solution will not only benefit the shire now through the current drought but will improve access to water for the community into the future.

“Work on this project will also benefit the local economy, through the procurement of local supplies and resources.”

The standpipes can be accessed via credit card or with a data card obtained from the council. The new standpipes will be in addition to the two currently in use on O’Neill Road, which will be updated to use the same system. The project is expected to be completed by June.

As part of the program, up to $1 million was made available to Gunnedah Shire Council to deliver infrastructure and other community projects as part of a drought relief package. 

Council is currently in the process of submitting applications for the shortlisted projects identified during that process.