Along with providing a safer, waist-level access point, the new standpipes are solar-powered and will have smart metering and the ability for customers to pay using credit and debit cards or a GVW-issued swipe card.
The first of these sites to be upgraded was recently completed at Karook St, Cobram, and was opened on February 7. The old site at Mill St (off Terminus Rd) has now been decommissioned.
Sites to be upgraded within the next two months include Shepparton (Florence St), Numurkah, Nathalia and Mansfield.
A schedule for upgrades at Euroa, Seymour (Delatite Rd), Kilmore, Rushworth, Nagambie, Shepparton (Daldy Rd), Tatura and Alexandra will be finalised soon for completion by June 30.
Standpipe sites in Euroa and Tatura will also be relocated to improve access and eliminate safety concerns.
GVW project co-ordinator Ian Matheson said the aim of the upgrades was to make it easier and faster for people to access the standpipes.
‘‘The new system will allow people to access the standpipe instantly, rather than waiting to be approved,’’ he said.
‘‘The access from the new standpipe is much safer compared to the overhead-fill systems, and will reduce the amount of paperwork that needs to be completed.’’
GVW will supply guides for existing and new users, as well as access swipe cards if required.
The $748000 upgrade project is expected to be completed in 2020.
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