The Waikerie Stormwater Reuse Project is an infrastructure initiative aimed at improving the management of stormwater in the region. The project involves the construction of a wetland system that will receive and treat stormwater runoff from the surrounding areas, improving water quality and providing a range of environmental benefits.

One of the primary environmental benefits of the project is the improvement of water quality. By treating stormwater before it enters the river, the wetland system can remove pollutants and nutrients, reducing the impact of stormwater on local waterways and ecosystems. This can help to protect aquatic habitats, promote biodiversity, and improve the overall health of the local environment.

Another benefit of the project is water savings. The wetland system will provide an alternative source of water for irrigation and other uses, reducing the demand on local water resources. This can help to conserve water and reduce the impact of droughts and other water shortages on the local community.

The project will also support local water reuse. The treated stormwater can be used for a range of purposes, such as irrigation, industrial processes, and firefighting, reducing the demand for potable water and promoting sustainable water use practices.

Finally, the wetland system will provide stormwater protection for low-lying areas. By capturing and storing stormwater, the wetland system can reduce the risk of flooding and erosion, protecting homes, businesses, and other infrastructure in the area.

Overall, the Waikerie Stormwater Reuse Project is an important infrastructure initiative that will provide a range of environmental benefits, promote sustainable water use practices, and help to protect the local community from the impact of storms and floods.

In August 2021, Council was notified that it was successful in receiving $1.8m towards the overall project budget in grant funding from the National Water Grid Fund's Connections Funding Pathway.

In 2007 a stormwater system review was completed in Waikerie, which identified possible stormwater detention locations throughout the township.

The Waikerie Stormwater Reuse Project completed a Scheme Optimisation Report in 2020 which identified four individual stormwater basin sites across the Waikerie district - Hart Lagoon, Corowa Stormwater Basin, Sports Complex, and Ifould Park. Concept designs and cost estimates were completed and presented to Council early 2020.

In August 2020, Council's Asset Management Committee prioritised Hart Lagoon as the first of four sites for construction, leading to the application of external grant funding.

In August 2021, Council was advised that it was successful in securing funding from the National Water Grid Fund's Connections Funding Pathway, and Council progressed with the project by engaging engineer to develop the concept designs to full detailed designs, as well as organising and applying for relevant development approvals, and engaging a Native Vegetation consultant.

In October of 2022, the Murray River floods began to travel through the region, considerably inundating roads and infrastructure by the time the peak water level was reached in December. A significant amount of work was undertaken on site at Hart Lagoon for emergency levee bank construction, which placed the project on hold while Council waited for flood waters to recede.

Council gave consideration to amending the designs for Hart Lagoon to incorporate the new levee bank, and as a result, Neilly Group Engineering were contracted to review the existing design and provide an option to have the project re-designed. Council was also be provided with an operational management model, irrigation review and final conceptual design (pictured above) to complete the project.

Following assessment of tender submissions for construction, Council awarded the construction contract to Neilly Group in October 2023. Works were completed in June 2024, and the wetland was officially opened on Tuesday 20 August 2024.