Published on Friday, 20 February 2026 at 5:12:01 PM
The City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder has completed a significant infrastructure upgrade at the South Boulder Wastewater Treatment Plant, with new inlet works now operational.
The $4.5 million project replaces ageing equipment at the very front of the treatment process, delivering a substantial improvement in how wastewater is screened and managed before entering the treatment ponds.
The newly installed dual-band screening system increases solid capture rates by approximately 50 per cent compared with the previous 25-year-old system, reducing strain on downstream infrastructure and improving overall plant efficiency.
Improved screening performance also supports the quality of recycled water produced by the facility. On average, 6.8 million litres of wastewater - around 78 litres every second — flows through the facility each day. This is reused across the City’s irrigation network to support parks, sporting ovals and public open spaces.
Mayor Glenn Wilson said the upgrade represents one of the most significant investments in the City’s ongoing wastewater treatment improvement program.
“This upgrade delivers a major improvement in efficiency. By tripling our effectiveness at the front of the treatment process, we are reducing pressure on the ponds and strengthening the overall treatment cycle,” Mayor Wilson said.
“I, along with my fellow Elected Members, have visited the site on several occasions and met with our Water Services team to understand the complexities of managing recycled water. It has been clear just how much detailed planning, technical expertise and coordination are required to deliver infrastructure of this scale.”
The new inlet works feature a purpose-built concrete structure incorporating a grit collection pit, dual band screens, inline flow meters and a dedicated septic tanker receival chamber. Together, these components modernise plant operations, strengthen reliability and enhance long-term performance.
These works form part of Phase Two of the City’s multi‑stage upgrade program. Phase One - the upgrade and relining of the treatment ponds - was completed in 2022.
Planning for Phase Three is already underway, with construction expected to commence by June as part of the City’s long-term strategy to future-proof the South Boulder Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Mayor Wilson said continued investment in essential infrastructure is critical to supporting the city’s growth.
“It may not be the most glamorous project, but it’s certainly one of the most important.”
“This investment ensures our wastewater systems remain reliable, sustainable, and capable of meeting the needs of our growing community.”
Pictured: South Boulder Wastewater Treatment Plant Inlet Works
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