Timeline for removal of Echuca Water Tower confirmed
Coliban Water has confirmed the Echuca Water Tower will be removed toward the end of 2026 after an independent assessment found structural issues in the 111-year-old tower pose an unacceptable safety risk.
General Manager Operations, Julian Bull, said the first evidence of structural issues was discovered during routine work to the tower’s facade in late 2024.
“Scaffolding and temporary fencing was installed at this time and an independent review commissioned to help guide the future management of the tower.
“We received the results of this review in October last year. It found that the tower, built to different construction standards more than a century ago, has exceeded its expected lifespan,” he explained.
“Of concern to us was that expected ongoing deterioration may pose a risk to our team, contractors, and members of the public.”
After consultation with Campaspe Shire Council, stakeholders and other agencies, Mr Bull said Coliban Water made the decision in November 2025 to decommission the tower from the local water network and plan for its removal.
“The decision to remove the tower is disappointing as we recognise the significance of its age and history. However, the safety of the community and our team must be the priority.”
During March, Coliban Water will transition the Echuca water supply from one where water pressure is provided by elevated storage, to a direct booster pump system.
“To facilitate the change, we reduced the level of water in the tower to less than 60% in November 2025. Since then, we know some customers may have experienced slightly lower water pressure,” he said.
“We have now completed operational changes and are ready to transition the network to a direct pump system, with two new surge vessels, back-up power supply, and upgraded control panels. The transition will see water pressure restored to early 2025 levels.”
Mr Bull confirmed that work will continue onsite from April to prepare for the removal of the tower toward the end of 2026.
“Pedestrian exclusion zones, traffic management, and temporary road closures will be used to ensure safety. Later in the year, scaffolding and a crane will be used to safely remove the tower section-by-section, with every effort made to minimise noise and dust.”
The Echuca Water Tower was completed in March 1915 at a cost of £2,973. Designed by Sir John Monash, it was built using 646 tonnes of reinforced concrete and has provided water pressure from a height of 32.9 metre for more than a century.
The tower was originally connected to the steam-powered pumping plant at Echuca East and brought tap water to local homes for the first time.
Community members invited to learn more at drop-in sessions
As part of its ongoing community engagement, Coliban Water is holding two drop-in sessions so the community can learn more, explore the project timeline, and ask questions.
Sessions are being held at the Mercure Port of Echuca, 465 High Street, on:
- Wednesday 11 March – between 11am and 1pm
- Wednesday 18 March – between 4pm and 6.30pm
Further information can be found at connect.coliban.com.au/echuca-water-tower or call 1300 363 200 during business hours.
