Newlyn Reservoir Action Group - March 2002 Newsletter 2

Newlyn Reservoir Action Group "Water is an essential commodity in our daily lives"

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March 2002 Newsletter 2 ___________________________________________________________________

PUBLIC MEETING

Over 30 people attended a public meeting held at Kingston on 19 March 2002 convened by the Newlyn Reservoir Action Group and called on Central Highlands Water to abandon its proposed bore water softening plant for the Forest Hill water supply system and to return to the Newlyn Reservoir.

The following resolutions were adopted unanimously by the meeting:

That in view of the fact that a consent order was handed down by Mr Justice Beach in the Supreme Court today calling on the Victorian Planning Minister to look at and consider new evidence in the Ascot farmers/Clunes water matter, this meeting calls on Central Highlands water to rescind its decision to implement its proposed Forest Hill groundwater softening plant.

That this meeting unanimously resolves to seek a return to the Newlyn Reservoir with the installation of high quality water treatment plant/s that would serve all communities on the Forest Hill and Clunes water supply systems.

CHW FEEDBACK FORM

Central Highlands Water is very keen to receive feedback from Forest Hill water supply customers. NRAG urges everyone to have their say and tell CHW how you want them to improve the quality of our water. Your opinion is very important, so if you have thrown out your feedback form ring CHW for another.

COMPENSATION

If you believe the supply of groundwater has damaged your hot water system or any other appliance, you may be able to claim compensation. Phone CHW on 5320 3100 to find out how.

WATER OMBUDSMAN

At the request of those attending the Public Meeting details of how to contact the Water Ombudsman are supplied below:

The Energy and Water Ombudsman (Victoria) (EWOV) has the power to investigate and resolve disputes between Victorian electricity, gas and water customers and their providers. You can contact the EWOV by Freecall: 1800 500 509, by Freefax: 1800 500 549, by Mail: EWOV, GPO Box 469 D, Melbourne 3001, or you can visit can their website and use the online complaint form at: http://www.eiov.com.au/html/complaints.html

Talk to CHW; ask for an explanation of the technical reports or the use of Sulphuric Acid and Caustic Soda to soften the water. Most importantly, talk to your neighbours, pass this newsletter on – your help is needed to reach everyone.