Preserving the iconic Golden Pipeline

The story of water in the Goldfields is full of intrigue, drama and engineering tenacity. The National Trust of Western Australia has done an incredible job telling this story in detail.  

Here is the short version. The Golden Pipeline, also known as the Goldfields and Agricultural Region Water Supply Scheme (GAWS), holds significant historical and cultural value in Western Australia. 

In the late 1800’s, sourcing fresh water for the Goldfields prospecting communities was a big problem. Rain was unreliable and groundwater was often saline and hard to access. This made the valuable resource as precious as gold and more expensive than whiskey. 

Transporting water over vast distances was also very difficult. 

Maintenance on the Golden Pipeline

Enter CY O'Connor

Enter, WA’s first Engineer-in-Chief, Charles Yelverton.  His recommended solution was simple. He wanted to find a freshwater source and pump the water to the Goldfields. The only problem was the proposed source was over 550km away in Perth.

Despite public cynicism, O’Connor built the longest pipeline in the world. In 1903, the pipeline opened and has been providing fresh water to the area for almost 120 years. 

WA's chief engineer Charles Yelverton O'Connor was behind the Goldfields water supply scheme. (Supplied: State Library of Western Australia)

Going underground

Now that the incredible engineering feat is over 100 years old, it needs some serious care. Large sections need replacing to ensure the reliable supply of water to over 39,000 connected properties.

As the pipeline is so special, we will protect the heritage value wherever possible. 

Under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, the plan is to upgrade parts with modern below-ground pipe. This will slowly be actioned over the next 50 years.

Modern leak detection and material technologies allow the pipeline to be laid below ground. This comes with performance, safety and security benefits. 

Lots of the current pipeline will still be visible. But having some underground protects this vital pipeline from traffic collisions, bushfires and vandalism.

Preserving our history

Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail signage

At Water Corporation we value and respect the rich heritage of CY O’Connor’s iconic Golden Pipeline. Our long-term plan engages the community and preserves heritage value for future generations.

For more information, visit the Goldfields Pipeline - Planning for replacement ongoing works page.