Spring has sprung and, while Liverpool is certainly happy to see the end of the cold and the steady rise of the mercury, we cannot help but feel slightly anxious as we hear that gentle, faint buzzing noise slowly getting louder. Warmer weather is always welcome, but it also signals the return of mosquitoes and, for our community, that is not just a minor seasonal nuisance. The people of Liverpool have more reason than most to remain alert. I have spoken before in this place about the serious mosquito outbreak we experienced at the end of last year. It was a challenging time that tested both the responsiveness of government and the resilience of our community.
From the moment I became aware of the scale of the problem, I understood that my role as the local member was to ensure that our Government responded decisively and effectively. This meant making sure that government-owned sites, including schools and hospitals, were treated promptly to reduce the risk to students, staff, patients and the wider public. I also wanted to keep the community updated on action being taken at the Liverpool water recycling facility in Warwick Farm. That work included aerial treatment, removal of frogbit weed and consistent monitoring of the site. It was all hands on deck.
As the temperature begins to rise again, I know that some of my constituents, as well as residents in neighbouring areas, are feeling a renewed sense of anxiety. No-one wants a repeat of last year's outbreak. I am pleased to report to the House, however, that Sydney Water has continued to monitor the plant diligently throughout the winter months. Its team remains fully committed to ensuring that the conditions which were behind last year's outbreak are not repeated this summer. I am particularly pleased to share that a comprehensive frogbit and mosquito management plan is now in place for the period 2024 to 2028. This plan includes a clear and proactive road map to keep our community safe and comfortable year after year. It outlines several key strategies that are already being implemented and will guide ongoing efforts.
One important element of the plan is expert oversight. Sydney Water has contracted entomologist Associate Professor Cameron Webb from NSW Health to conduct monthly site inspections and recommend preventative or treatment actions in warmer months. People who are familiar with him would be aware that he is one of Australia's foremost experts on mosquitoes. On that front, I have great news directly from Associate Professor Webb, who recently posted the following to social media:
The arrival of spring was a reminder to check the problem wasn't going to return and the great news is that I inspected these ponds again last week and not only was there no sign of aquatic weed infestation, I could not find a single mosquito!
That is fantastic news. The plan also implements strict new measures around frogbit and other aquatic vegetation. Vegetation removed from the pond in November and December last year was buried and capped on site at the Liverpool facility. That area will not be disturbed for a period of at least four years. As for any future vegetation, contractors are undertaking inspections and treatments on a weekly basis, while also keeping detailed records. No new significant infestations have been observed since last December.
Christmas will again not be cancelled. Several measures are being undertaken to minimise the risk of frogbit and mosquito infestation in the oxidation pond. The management strategy has three components. The first component is optimising treatment. A new primary effluent pumping station project was completed. During dry weather, the pumping station transfers primary effluent to the northern Georges River submain rather than to the oxidation pond. That significantly reduces nutrient loads in the pool, limiting conditions that promote the growth of aquatic vegetation and mosquito-breeding habitats. The second component is clean-up and disposal. Ahead of the temperature rising for summer, Sydney Water has engaged a contractor to de-sludge the oxidation pond, which will remove pre-existing contaminants. Works are planned to commence this month.
The third component is improving levels of treatment at the plant. Major upgrades will be commencing next year to improve overall effluent quality and capacity. Near-term works have an expected operational date of the 2028-29 financial year. I recognise the team at Sydney Water who, from last year's outbreak until today, have worked openly and collaboratively. Their efforts reflect our Government's broader commitment to engaging in good faith, addressing problems as they arise and focusing on long-term prevention. Thanks to careful monitoring, regular maintenance and planned upgrades at the plant, our community can look forward to a more comfortable summer. While I cannot guarantee a mozzie-less summer, I have confidence that we will avoid the problems of last spring.
