Woodvale Evaporation Ponds Complex
The Woodvale Evaporation Ponds Complex is located approximately 13 km north of Bendigo in Central Victoria.
The ponds are used to evaporate groundwater to prevent flooding of underground infrastructure including the Central Deborah Gold Mine, a popular tourist attraction. Groundwater is treated at the New Moon water treatment plant before being piped to the complex and pumped into the ponds.
Background
Following the liquidation in 2021 of Kralcopic Pty Ltd (the company that previously owned the site), Resources Victoria assumed responsibility for managing the complex and its rehabilitation.
Management activities
Resources Victoria’s first priorities were to make the complex safe and secure, and to implement monthly dust monitoring. Results were reviewed by an independent EPA-appointed auditor and quarterly reports published until the first quarter of 2024.
Latest report
Historical reports
Resources Victoria has since implemented a management strategy for the complex. This includes quarterly groundwater and surface water monitoring in addition to monthly dust monitoring. Results will be reported annually from mid-2025 and published here.
Rehabilitation activities
Rehabilitation of the complex will focus on addressing the presence of contaminated pond sediments to reduce the risk of harm to the community and the environment.
Previous, current and future rehabilitation activities related to the complex are outlined below.
| Year | Works completed |
|---|---|
| 2021 |
|
| 2022 |
|
| 2023 |
|
| 2024 |
|
Resources Victoria will continue to communicate and work closely with the local community and key stakeholders during the development and implementation of the rehabilitation plan.
After the plan is approved, Resources Victoria will conduct a formal procurement process to engage a contaminated land remediation expert to commence site remediation works. Implementation of the rehabilitation plan will be a phased approach based on project funding and the approved scope of works.
Community updates
Resources Victoria is committed to keeping the community informed about rehabilitation activities being undertaken at the Woodvale Evaporation Ponds Complex. In addition to publishing information here, new information is provided via email or by attending community meetings.
Please contact errfeedback@deeca.vic.gov.au if you would like to receive email updates about rehabilitation activities at the complex.
Enquiries and feedback
If you have any questions, concerns or feedback regarding the Woodvale Evaporation Ponds Complex, please contact Resources Victoria via errfeedback@deeca.vic.gov.au and provide a phone number if you would prefer a call back.
Page last updated: 17 Dec 2024