Coliban Water wins big at Earth Awards for Laanecoorie project and celebrates heritage restoration at Malmsbury
Coliban Water is proud to announce its win at the 2025 Civil Contractors Federation Victoria Earth Awards, taking home top honours in Category 2 (project value $2 million to $5 million) for the Laanecoorie Water Tanks and Pump Station Project, delivered in partnership with Simpson Construction Company.
The awards, held on Friday 29 August, celebrate excellence in civil construction across Victoria. Coliban Water was also a finalist in Category 1 (project value up to $2 million) for the Malmsbury Reservoir Bridge Refurbishment Project, delivered with Civil and Earth Australia.
“It was a privilege to accept the award on behalf of Coliban Water, our contractors, and the entire team,” said Manager Infrastructure Corey Bourne.
“These projects reflect our commitment to delivering high-quality infrastructure that benefits our communities and customers.”
The award-winning Laanecoorie project has delivered a major upgrade to the raw water supply for the Laanecoorie Water Treatment Plant, securing a more reliable and higher-quality drinking water source for residents in the region.
Simpson Construction Company built two new 1 megalitre concrete tanks, each standing 4.5 metres high and 20 metres in diameter, and a pump station housing two raw water pumps. These tanks now receive and store water from the South West Loddon Pipeline, replacing the previous supply from the Loddon River, which was often poor quality water and placed strain on the treatment process.
The project was delivered on time, on budget, and to a high standard, with reduced operational inputs and environmental impacts. It significantly improves the quality, reliability, and drought resilience of the drinking water supply for the community.
Coliban Water’s Malmsbury Reservoir Bridge Refurbishment Project was also a proud finalist in the up to $2 million category, showcasing a once-in-a-lifetime restoration of a treasured heritage asset.
Constructed in 1906, the 50-metre-long cast iron Warren Truss design bridge provides access to the reservoir’s dam outlet and tower – both listed on the Victorian Heritage Register. The upgrade included replacing the bridge’s foundations, repairing and refurbishing the steel structure, cast iron supports, and bluestone abutments.
In December 2023, the bridge was carefully removed in four 12-metre sections and transported off-site for restoration by Civil and Earth Australia. The rehabilitation was completed in October 2024 at a cost of $895,000.
Coliban Water worked closely with Heritage Victoria, DJAARA and other key stakeholders to ensure the integrity and cultural significance of the site were preserved throughout the works.
Coliban Water’s success at the Earth Awards highlights the value of strong partnerships in delivering complex infrastructure projects. Corey Bourne extended his thanks on behalf of the team to Simpson Construction Company and Civil and Earth Australia for their expertise and collaboration.
“These projects are a testament to what can be achieved when we work together with our delivery partners and stakeholders,” said Corey Bourne. “We’re proud to deliver outcomes that not only improve essential services but also protect our region’s heritage.”
For more information, contact us on 1300 363 200 or visit www.coliban.com.au
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