New water testing laboratory open for business

The $3 million project at 89 Connors Road includes the purchase of the building and a complete new, state-of-the-art fit-out. The fit-out was completed by Fergus Builders.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the decision was made to fit out an existing building to save valuable time and money.

“It was important that our team was able to provide a continuous service with as little disruption as possible,” Cr Williamson said.

“By choosing this option we were able to avoid the extended wait on a new-build and focus on our needs inside the facility.

“The new facility houses specialised laboratory equipment to allow a range of chemical and microbiological testing to occur.

“It also provides a much bigger working space for our team. We currently have 15 staff working in the laboratory, but the new lab will allow us to expand our business and accommodate up to 25 staff in a safe environment,” he said.

Cr Williamson said the new laboratory would cater to a growing demand for scientific and analytical water testing in the region.

“Our laboratory currently conducts around 350,000 tests each year,” Cr Williamson said.

“These are not just for council but for our neighbouring councils, government agencies, environmental groups, and private businesses.

“The lab also provides a variety of water testing suites to the public for testing on water tanks, bores, swimming pools and irrigation systems,” he said.

The facility is a National Association of Testing Authorities (NATA) accredited laboratory. It is open for sample deliveries Monday to Friday, from 8.00am to 2.30pm.