Tackling odour at Officer South with fresh solutions
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.
For more information visit southeastwater.com.au/odourcontrol