South East Water is ramping up odour control measures at its Officer South Sewer Pump Station with a series of immediate and long-term upgrades designed to reduce smells reported by some residents in the Arcadia Estate.
Crews have already increased chemical dosing at the site to better treat sewage and reduce odour-producing compounds.
The site’s ventilation schedule has also been adjusted to more effectively manage air flows.
Planning is also underway for the installation of a temporary odour control system, which South East Water expects to be in place by mid-September 2025.
This will remain in operation until a major upgrade to the station’s permanent odour control infrastructure is delivered in 2027.
South East Water Group Manager Network Operations, Declan McCreesh said the improvements are part of the utility’s commitment to supporting liveable, healthy communities.
“We’re putting in place longer-term solutions now to support a growing community,” Mr McCreesh said.
“Pump stations like Officer South quietly do the heavy lifting — moving wastewater safely away from homes and businesses. It’s important they run effectively, but it’s equally important they operate in harmony with the communities around them.
“While some odour can happen as part of the necessary ventilation process, we’re committed to minimising any impacts through smart investment and design.”
The temporary odour control system earmarked for mid-September will connect to the facility’s existing ventilation equipment. The system will treat odour using an activated carbon filter. The treated air will then be discharged via the sewer pump station’s 15-metre vent stack.
The commitment follows months of advocacy from local residents and Cardinia Shire councillors, who have been pressing for action after strong odours were reported around the freeway ramps earlier this year.
In May, Cardinia Shire Council Cr Samantha-Jane Potter described the smell as an issue affecting her own family.
“I want you to know this isn’t a Council-run service, but it’s absolutely something I care about because it affects my own family too. I’m not just your Councillor-I’m your neighbour,” she shared at the time.
In response to community concerns earlier this year, South East Water reduced ventilation run times, introduced chemical dosing, and eventually shut down the ventilation system in April to help contain the odour. While these steps led to fewer complaints, residents were told further improvements were in the pipeline.
Mayor Cr Jack Kowarzik said Cardinia Shire Council “welcomes the progress being made to address this issue”.
“We trust South East Water as the responsible authority to get the job done,” Kowarzik said.
“We encourage any residents with questions or concerns to contact South East Water.”
On a personal level, Cr Potter acknowledged the steps South East Water is taking to improve the situation in her Officer Ward.
“I would like to thank South East Water for looking into, and taking action on, this matter.”
For more information visit southeastwater.com.au/odourcontrol
