Wollondilly Council’s Integrated Water Management Strategy has won the Water Management Award at the 2021 Local Government NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards.

This is an important recognition for Wollondilly Council, with the Shire containing much of Sydney’s drinking water catchment and considerable natural heritage including unspoiled creeks and rivers.

Adopted in December 2020, the Water Management Strategy was put together by a team of Council staff, incorporating community feedback and input from key stakeholders such as Sydney Water, the Environment Protection Authority and the former Office of Environment and Heritage.

CEO Ben Taylor said, “I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to provide the feedback which helped us develop the Water Management Strategy. A lot of work was put into the project by staff, Councillors, stakeholders and community members, and it is fantastic to see it receive this award from Local Government NSW.”

“With the area experiencing significant growth, it is important to consider the potential impact on water quality and supply, biodiversity, recreation and climate resilience. We need to proactively manage and protect our water sources into the future.”

The Strategy aims to deliver smarter water management outcomes, including protecting the health of the aquatic ecosystems, adding value to biodiversity, recreation, liveability, climate resilience and flood management.

It also looks at minimising the long term resource and cost burdens on Council, the community and other stakeholders, and promotes water conservation and reuse.

Mr Taylor added, “Hopefully we can continue work in this space to manage water more effectively to support a healthier and more resilient community, environment and local economy.”