Joint media release: Construction begins on landmark Nyngan and Hermidale pump stations

Senator The Hon Murray Watt, Minister for the Environment and Water
The Hon Rose Jackson MLC, NSW Minister for Water

Construction on one of the largest water infrastructure projects in western NSW is now underway, with the new Nyngan and Hermidale pump stations set to deliver long-term water reliability for Cobar.

The project is jointly funded by the Australian Government through the National Water Grid Fund and the NSW Government.

The $49 million project will be a gamechanger for Cobar, one of the only towns in NSW without its own water source, which relies on water being transferred via 130km of pipeline.

The current pump stations play a critical role in getting water where it needs to go but the ageing infrastructure is no longer fit for purpose.

Two new, state-of-the-art facilities will replace the current stations, ensuring Cobar will have access to safe, reliable town water supply in years to come.

The upgraded infrastructure will incorporate the latest technology, enabling remote monitoring and boosting safety for operators while reducing the risk of critical failures.

Contractor SRG Global Utilities (formally Diona) is now on site and leading delivery of the project, with construction of both pump stations expected to be completed by mid-2027.

It is being delivered in close partnership with the Cobar Water Board, Cobar Shire Council and Bogan Shire Council to ensure the new infrastructure is fit-for-purpose and future-ready.

For more information about the project, visit: Nyngan to Cobar Pump Stations and Pipeline

Quotes attributable to the Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt:

“For years the Cobar community have had to worry about their water security due to not having their own water source. An end is finally in sight to help ease these concerns, as shovels officially hit the ground.

“We’re pleased to work along the Minns Government to provide the funding that’s needed to get this work underway.

“It’s vital these pump stations are replaced now to prevent a potential catastrophic failure in the supply system.”

Quotes attributable to the NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson:

“These new pump stations are a landmark step forward in delivering better water security and infrastructure for Cobar, one of the most vulnerable towns in the state when it comes to drought.

“Earlier this year I had the opportunity to meet with Council and visit the sites in person to gain a better understanding of the project and the importance of the pump stations in supporting safe and secure water for Cobar.

“By replacing the old stations at Nyngan and Hermidale with modern facilities, we are ensuring water can continue to flow safely and reliably now and into the future.

“We are backing local communities with the infrastructure they need to grow and thrive.”

Quotes attributable to Member for Barwon Roy Butler:

“I’m glad to see work moving ahead on upgrades to the Nyngan to Cobar pipeline. These pumping stations are a great start, and I will continue working closely with Council, the Cobar Water Board, Minister Jackson and Federal Minister Murray Watt on necessary works to replace the pipeline itself.”

Quotes attributable to the Mayor for Cobar Jarrod Marsden:

“The start of construction on this project marks a momentous occasion for our community.

“These two new pump stations are the foundation for a more resilient and reliable water system for every resident and generations to come.”