Media Release - Smart Standpipes to Strengthen Water Security in the Flinders Ranges
$34,500 Grant Secured to Modernise Quorn and Hawker Water Standpipes
The Flinders Ranges Council has secured $34,500 in funding through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions 2025 Publicly Accessible Standpipe Upgrade Fund to automate the Quorn and Hawker water standpipes.
The project will see the installation of smart standpipe controllers, delivering secure 24/7 digital access, automated water usage tracking and improved system management for more than 50 local families and agricultural users who rely on the standpipes due to a lack of SA Water connections.
Mayor Ken Anderson said the upgrade represents a significant step forward for water security and service delivery in the region. “This funding allows Council to modernise essential infrastructure that many of our residents and primary producers depend on every day,” Mayor Anderson said.
“The current manual systems are inefficient, administratively burdensome and prone to water loss and leakage. Moving to a smart, automated system will deliver fairer, more secure and more reliable access to water for our community.”
The total cost of the project exceeds $70,000, with $34,500 provided through the State Government grant program. Council is contributing approximately $15,000 in cash and a further $23,000 in in-kind support.
The automated system will enable differentiated pricing for residents, businesses and tourists, while significantly reducing the need for manual oversight and associated administrative costs. “This upgrade will improve equitable access to water, enhance operational efficiency and strengthen our drought resilience,” Mayor Anderson said. “Importantly, it delivers long-term environmental, financial and community benefits, along with meaningful administrative savings for Council.
Installation works are progressing, with the concrete pad currently being prepared at the Quorn site. Works at Hawker will follow. Council has reassured users that there will be no major interruptions to water supply during installation. “We want to ensure standpipe users that access to water will continue throughout the upgrade process,” Mayor Anderson said. “If any minor disruptions are required, we will notify users in advance, and detailed information on how to use the new system will be provided well before it becomes operational.”
The project reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to strengthening essential services and supporting the sustainability of rural and regional communities across the Flinders Ranges.