FILTEC to Deliver Major Upgrade for Bendigo Recycled Water Factory
FILTEC begins works on the Bendigo Recycled Water Factory upgrade, increasing Class A recycled water production for the region.
Expanding Class A Recycled Water Production at Bendigo
FILTEC has been engaged as lead contractor by Coliban Water to deliver a major upgrade to the Bendigo Recycled Water Factory. The project will increase production of high-quality recycled water for the growing regional community.
The project was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by representatives from Coliban Water and FILTEC, signalling the commencement of works to expand the facility’s treatment capacity.
The Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant plays a critical role in servicing the region, treating wastewater from more than 100,000 people and producing recycled water to irrigate public open spaces such as parks, sporting fields and golf courses.
Coliban Water is undertaking a broader program of upgrades to its wastewater and recycled water infrastructure to support population growth, strengthen climate resilience and expand opportunities for sustainable water reuse across Bendigo.
As part of this initiative, the Bendigo Recycled Water Factory upgrade will increase production of Class A recycled water from approximately 3 ML per day to 10 ML per day, significantly expanding recycled water availability for community and environmental uses.
Integrating Ultrafiltration into the Existing Treatment Process
As the lead contractor FILTEC will deliver specialist process engineering, construction, installation and commissioning services as part of the recycled water factory upgrade.
A new ultrafiltration (UF) membrane system will be integrated into the existing process, strengthening plant performance and reliability.
The upgraded treatment process will adopt a multi-barrier approach to pathogen removal, combining ultrafiltration with the plant’s existing ultraviolet (UV) disinfection system and the addition of chlorination to meet Class A recycled water regulatory requirements.
Enhancements to chemical dosing and Clean-in-Place (CIP) systems, including additional pipeline mixing and chemical injection points, will further optimise membrane performance and overall process stability.
Infrastructure Upgrades to Improve Operational Flexibility
Major construction works will allow the plant to operate with multiple treatment train configurations, ensuring the facility can maintain compliance even if individual treatment barriers require maintenance.
A new process building will house the UF membrane skids, improving equipment protection and operator access. A large balance tank will also be installed, providing operational flexibility between sewage treatment inflows and recycled water distribution demand.
Delivering the Project with Local Subcontractors
FILTEC is committed to supporting the local economy during delivery of the project, engaging local subcontractors and a nearby mechanical workshop for elements of the works.
Once complete, the upgraded Bendigo Recycled Water Factory will strengthen Bendigo’s water resilience while enabling Coliban Water to expand recycled water use across public open spaces including public gardens and sporting fields.
The project highlights FILTEC’s capability in delivering complex membrane treatment upgrades and advanced water treatment integration for councils and water authorities across Australia.
