East Gippsland Water and East Gippsland Shire Council have joined forces on an innovative campaign to encourage locals and visitors to save drinking water and bin wet wipes.  

The campaign sees Council placing eye-catching East Gippsland Water (EGW) educational materials – including posters and stickers­ – in public restrooms, baby change rooms, and caravan and camping parks across the region.  

The collaborative point-of-use campaign is designed to educate people on ways to conserve water, while also encouraging them to dispose of all wet wipes in the bin, not down the toilet, where they are a major cause of toilet and sewer system blockages.  

East Gippsland Water’s General Manager Customer, Community and Communications, David Radford, said the educational materials serve as an important reminder for people at public facilities at which they might be using water and wet wipes – especially while holidaying.  

“There are two key messages,” Mr Radford said. “The first is that water conservation doesn’t take a holiday. In other words, even when you’re away from home, it’s important to do your bit to conserve water for the future. The cumulative effect of small individual steps – like taking shorter showers, turning off the tap while you’re brushing your teeth or shaving, or using the half-flush button – can make a significant difference.”

He said the other key message – supported by an attention-grabbing cartoon illustration of “Wipezilla” the wet-wipe monster – is that all wet wipes, even the so-called flushable ones, should be binned and not flushed.

“Regardless of what the product packaging might say, wet wipes just don’t break down like toilet paper, and they’re a major cause of sewer blockages and damage to our wastewater treatment facilities,” Mr Radford explained. “The simple message? Bin them, don’t flush them.”

Mayor Cr Jodie Ashworth said the campaign is expected to cut water use and reduce facility maintenance.

“Reducing water use in our public facilities benefits our environment, community and ratepayers. Keeping public toilets running smoothly and free from blockages improves the experience for locals and visitors,” Cr Ashworth said. “That’s a win for everyone.”