Background

In March 2024, Wentworth Shire Council upgraded the main Effluent Disposal Station in Wentworth, this became possible with the success of two grant application through Resources for Region round 7 & Boating Now program.

The Wentworth EDS is used by houseboat users in the Wentworth area to dispose of waste safely to the Wentworth sewer system. The old Wentworth EDS had exceeded its 25-year life expectancy as it had now reached 35 years of operating and was showing its age with constant maintenance issue.

In 2024 there were 6-10 Houseboat operators in the Sunraysia & Wentworth region, which is home to approximately 80 commercial houseboats, 3 commercial paddle boats and, approx. 400 private houseboats

The upgrade of the Wentworth Effluent Disposal Stations on the Darling River plays a crucial role in delivering environmental and sustainability outcomes.

Effluent Disposal Stations are designed to enable houseboats and other boats to discharge their wastewater and other waste (rubbish) at regular locations along the Murray River.

In addition, Wentworth Shire Council has upgraded Wentworth Effluent Disposal Station to a “Tap & Go” user pay system.

This significantly reduces the user base to the main houseboat operators. Wentworth Shire Council will be able to compare the number of key users against the number of different “Tap & Go” users to determine it a wider range of houseboat operators are using the refurbished facility.

Having the upgrade of Effluent Disposal Station on a river has improved tourism by protecting the local environment, which is crucial for attracting and retaining visitors. By preventing water pollution from waste, these stations enhance the natural beauty of Wentworth as a destination, making it more appealing and allowing for activities like boating and swimming.

This infrastructure supports the visitor economy, ensuring a sustainable environment for both tourism and local communities, and create new opportunities for sustainable tourism growth.