Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) has reached a significant milestone in its fire hydrant inspection and maintenance program, with 249 hydrants inspected across the local government area since works commenced in July.
The program, which will ultimately assess around 1,200 hydrants across Cootamundra, Gundagai and South Gundagai, is helping Council ensure critical firefighting infrastructure remains operational, accessible and ready to support emergency services when required.
Inspections have included testing water flow and pressure, checking hydrant signage and verifying that hydrants can be safely and effectively accessed by firefighters.
A key finding from the first stage of inspections is that the majority of defects assessed to date have been affected by silt build-up caused by ant nesting activity inside hydrant assemblies.
Mayor Cr Abb McAlister said the inspections are already providing valuable information about the condition of the region’s fire hydrant network.
“Reaching nearly 250 inspections is an important milestone for this project and has already highlighted areas where maintenance is needed to ensure hydrants remain serviceable and accessible.”
“Identifying issues such as silt build-up early means Council can take action to improve the reliability of these assets and ensure they are ready when emergency services need them most.”
As inspections and maintenance works continue, residents may notice contractors operating hydrants in their neighbourhoods. Council advises that temporary discoloured water may occur following hydrant flushing due to the disturbance of sediment within water mains. If this occurs, residents should run a cold water tap for two to three minutes until the water clears.
Council is also encouraging residents to support the program by locating their nearest hydrant, keeping grass and vegetation clear around hydrants, and reporting any hydrants that appear damaged or require maintenance.
Motorists are reminded that parking within one metre of a fire hydrant is prohibited under NSW Road Rule 194 and currently attracts a $144 fine.
The fire hydrant inspection and maintenance program will continue across the region over the coming months as Council works towards completing inspections of all hydrants within the network.
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