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07 October 2019

Damian Wells has commenced his role as Coliban Water Managing Director today following his recent mountain biking accident in which he fractured his neck.

Mr Wells said he was looking forward to leading the organisation, with his key focus being the implementation of Coliban Water’s Strategy 2030.  A central objective of the strategy is ensuring that Coliban Water, and the region, are ‘ahead of the curve’ in adapting to climate change.

“I am confident in Coliban Water’s ability to rise to the climate adaptation challenge so we can continue to enjoy the incredible livability of our wonderful region.  It will require a coordinated team-effort from the community and all levels of government.

“We will innovate and change to ensure we continue to deliver services that underpin the region’s prosperity, while our population continues to grow and the climate becomes hotter and drier, resulting in reduced inflows to our water storages,” Mr Wells said.

An immediate priority for Mr Wells includes driving the delivery of upgrade works at the Kyneton Water Reclamation Plant.

“The delivery of the Kyneton Solutions Project will be a key focus of mine, with phase one of the works announced last week.

“With the Coliban Water Team, I will engage with landowners, stakeholders and the broader Kyneton community as we work to improve the trade waste and domestic treatment processes at the Kyneton Water Reclamation Plant to continue to service the growing region and help protect the health of the Campaspe River,” Mr Wells said.

Following his appointment, Mr Wells was due to commence in the role in August, however his start was delayed following a mountain biking accident in which he suffered a fractured neck, while fortunately avoiding any spinal cord injury.

“I was exceptionally lucky that my accident didn’t result in a more serious outcome.  I have a lot of rehabilitation work ahead following the removal of the ‘halo’ device that was installed to enable the fracture to heal, but I am feeling good and very excited about starting this critical leadership role for our community,” Mr Wells said.

Mr Wells acknowledged and thanked Neville Pearce who has led the organisation as Acting Managing Director following the departure of Jeff Rigby in March this year, and the support he has received from the Coliban Water Board throughout his recovery.

“The support of my family, Coliban Water Chair Lucy Roffey, the Board, executive and staff of Coliban Water, as well as my previous colleagues at EPA Victoria has been incredible,” said Mr Wells.

More information about Coliban Water can be found at www.coliban.com.au

Last updated on 07 Oct 2019
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