Investigation into deliberate damage at multiple key Launceston water infrastructure sites

Investigation into deliberate damage at multiple key Launceston water infrastructure sites

TasWater is investigating multiple acts of vandalism at two of its water infrastructure sites - the Rocherlea reservoirs in Launceston and the Bell Bay Water Treatment Plant.

Last week, vandals entered TasWater’s Rocherlea site, deliberately lighting fires and gaining unauthorised access to reservoir roofs. Then, over the weekend, persons unknown unlawfully entered the Bell Bay site, resulting in extensive damage and theft of critical electrical, control and telemetry infrastructure.

TasWater General Manager Operations Brendan Windmeyer said the organisation takes the security of its assets seriously and has reported the incidents to Tasmania Police.

“We want to remind the community that these sites critical infrastructure and damaging them can have serious consequences including impacts to greater Launceston’s drinking water supply, Mr Windmeyer said.

“While these incidents have not affected our ability to provide essential services to the community, vandalism of critical operational depots is disappointing and puts unnecessary strain on our teams.

“We are working closely with police and assessing the damage to ensure the site is secure.”

The Rocherlea reservoirs are a critical part of TasWater’s network, supplying Launceston with enough drinking water to fill 22 Olympic-sized swimming pools, while the Bell Bay Water Treatment Plant is essential in TasWater’s telemetry network in northern Tasmania.

TasWater’s telemetry network allows the utility to undertake real time monitoring of its assets to improve water quality and sewage controls.

TasWater is asking anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the two areas over the last few weeks to contact Tasmania Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.