The Derwent River
Around 60 per cent of Hobart’s water supply comes from the upper reaches of the Derwent River. Captured from the river above New Norfolk, the cold, pristine waters from Tasmania’s highlands are treated at the Bryn Estyn Treatment Plant before being piped into reservoirs around Hobart.
More information on the Derwent River Catchment and what Hobart Water does to protect it can be found within our environment page.
Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant
The Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant is the largest of its kind in Tasmania and at times produces most of Hobart’s drinking water.
The plant was built in 1962, when the city's water needs started to exceed the existing supply of water from the Mountain and Lake Fenton.
After an investigation by the then Metropolitan Water Board, the decision was made to build a full treatment facility. The plant was ground-breaking for its time and built in record time.
Less than 1% of raw water is drawn from the Derwent River and passes through a full water treatment process, including filtration, chlorination and fluoridation. The Plant is the ‘heart’ of Hobart Water’s entire water system and operates around the clock throughout the year.
Celebrating the Derwent
As a major sponsor, Hobart Water is very proud to be associated with the annual Derwent Valley Autumn Festival. Hobart Water supports the festival by having a stand at the festival and providing financial support to Council.
The Festival, which takes place on the banks of the Derwent River, is a wonderful event in which the community comes together and celebrates the area’s natural beauty and participates in the free entertainment. To find out more about the festival click here.
Want more information?
To learn more about the Bryn Estyn Water Treatment Plant, take a look at our Fact Sheet.