By REBECCA BILLS
DESPITE some Monbulk residents being critical of the proposed Sewerage Backlog Program, others are keen to get involved.
Monbulk resident Rita Soares, who moved to the area one year ago, said the Sewerage Backlog Program would be a step in the right direction for the township.
The Mail reported last month that more than 900 properties have been identified by the Yarra Ranges Council for further assessment to determine the need for sewerage services, after septic tanks used to manage domestic waste-water have been identified as potentially failing to meet standards.
Although Monbulk resident Bronwyn Slagter voiced concerns that added costs associated with septic tank removal would create added pressure on struggling households, Ms Soares said she couldn’t wait to get rid of her septic system.
“We spoke to council and even had a plumber come out, so we could learn how the system works – we also had it pumped and cleaned as soon as we moved in,” she said.
“We noticed over summer lots of flies and smells coming from the tank with that smell even following into winter.
“I understand that there are different cases where the tanks are working properly, but from my understanding owners will be able to make the decision to partake in the program.”
Yarra Valley Water general manager Sustainable Development Sam Austin said they were continuing to investigate the best wastewater management solution for the Monbulk area.
“Based on our investigations, we will develop a number of possible sewerage servicing scenarios for Monbulk that will be communicated to the community,” he said.
“Residents will then have the opportunity to consider the scenarios and provide the feedback they may have.
“We estimate a mail out to residents will take place in July/August, explaining how to review the scenarios and provide comments,” he said.
Mr Austin said since 2005, Yarra Valley Water had been progressively implementing their current Sewerage Backlog Program to provide a replacement for failing onsite wastewater systems (such as septic tanks).
“This program is designed to provide new sewerage service to properties currently serviced by onsite wastewater systems that are unable to contain their wastewater (water from bathroom, toilet, kitchen, and laundry) onsite all-year round,” he said.
“If a property can contain their wastewater onsite, they will not participate in the Sewerage Backlog Program.”
Mr Austin said benefits of connecting to the sewerage system was that residents could reduce their impact on the local environment and be rewarded with benefits such as improved local waterway health and reduced risk to public health.
Other benefits include no ongoing requirements to maintain or upgrade onsite wastewater treatment systems, elimination of odours and unsightly damp wastewater patches around homes and local areas alongside greater flexibility of home improvement/extension options.
