Leak repaired at Patonga

Gosford Council has repaired a significant leak in its water mains in Patonga as part of its leakage detection program.

The sandy soils in the area meant the water was not visible from the surface, according to council staff.

The Council staff identified the water loss by detecting noise levels between midnight and 4am, using a meter that was inserted into the pipes without interrupting the water supply.

Council claims to have "saved" 700 million litres of water with its detection program.

More than 150 hidden leaks in council's water supply network had been located and repaired since the program began in December 2004, according to Council's acting operations manager Mr Rick Brocklehurst.

He said council was pleased with the results of the program to date.

"The program uses advanced leak detection equipment which enables us to be proactive in water loss management," Mr Brocklehurst said.

"By listening to the pitch of the water as it escapes from the network, we can determine the location of a small leak and repair it before the pipe bursts."

He said the council was also currently working with the Local Government and Shires Association under its water loss management program to further reduce leaks in the system.

Leaks identified under this program would be eligible for funding assistance from the association's Water Loss Management Fund.

"The financial assistance from the association will provide more leak detection equipment so council can better manage and minimise the potential loss of our precious water supply," Mr Brocklehurst said.

Press release, 9 Oct 2007 Meaghan Wilkinson, Gosford Council