Mr Blair said the NSW Government had provided $495,000 in funding to the Bombala Water Treatment Plant Project and $5.35 million to the Lake Wallace Dam project through its Restart NSW Water Security for Regions program.

“The funding of these important projects demonstrates the government’s commitment to securing the water supply for regional communities, especially during times of drought,” Mr Blair said.

The works at the Bombala Water Treatment Plant will see aging infrastructure upgraded to modern standards that will enhance the operations and reliability of the plant.

Member for Monaro and Minister for Regional Development John Barilaro said the water treatment plant had experienced a number of issues related to system failure so this investment is great news for council and for the community.

“This funding will support essential work to ensure a consistent supply of potable water of good quality and reduce wastage at the plant.”

On Monday, Snowy Monaro Regional Council staff members were joined by the Minister for Water, Niall Blair and Bronnie Taylor MLC to cut the ribbon and officially open the Lake Wallace Dam at Nimmitabel.

The completed 320 megalitre Lake Wallace Dam on Pigring Creek provides a new water supply for Nimmitabel, which until now has had to rely on a 4.5 megalitre weir pond and two water bores.

“These two projects are at different ends of the construction spectrum with the work at Bombala Water Treatment Plant just beginning and the work at Lake Wallace Dam just completed,” Mr Barilaro said.

“The upgrade of the Bombala Water Treatment Plant will improve water quality and security of supply, giving the community increased confidence in the drinking water,” Mr Barilaro said.

Work on the Bombala Water Treatment Plant is expected to start soon.