The facility, which was built in the 1930s, is in desperate need of an upgrade. Just over a year ago the federal government committed $10m, while council put aside $7m, but the project needs the NSW government’s support before it can go ahead.

The project would drought-proof the Upper Hunter towns of Quirindi, Werris Creek and Willow Tree, and Werris Creek itself, which is the Tamworth electorate.

LPSC mayor Andrew Hope said Upper Hunter MP Michael Johnsen and Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson had been lobbying very hard.

“I've spoken with Michael and Kevin, and I’m reasonably confidence the funding will come out in the June budget,” Cr Hope said.

“If it’s not in the budget, then we’ll jump up and down. But we owe them the opportunity to see what the budget holds.”

Mr Anderson said the water treatment plant was a “priority project for me and the Werris Creek community” and was lobbying hard to see funding allocated.

“I have spoken with the Minister about the importance of the project to the Werris Creek community and sought funding,” he said.

“In my recent survey to all households in Werris Creek, they also highlighted how important this project is and I am backing the community on this.”

Mr Johnsen emphasised he was “awaiting the release of the NSW Budget”.

 “If it is not funded, then I will be making my views known at that time,” he said.

“I am fully in favour of this project and have been calling on the NSW government to fund its share.”