Newrybar Dual Occupancy
Wastewater solution for Cedar Hill boutique dual occupancy development in Byron hinterland
PROJECT DETAILS
Location:
Newrybar, NSW
Product:
Dual Fuji Clean HSTPs with Subsurface Drip Irrigation
Capability:
Consult, design, and construct STP
True Water upgraded the Wastewater Treatment System (WWTS) for a luxury property celebrated as one of Australia’s most beautiful homes. This stunning residence, a modern interpretation of classic barn-style living featuring award-winning architecture, stands in one of the most prestigious real estate markets in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales.
The Newrybar property, now called Cedar Hill, underwent a remarkable transformation. Originally a modest rural estate with aging structures in need of extensive upgrades, it now boasts modern enhancements. The property owners enlisted our team to prepare an Effluent Management Report and design an advanced WWTS to support its redevelopment and modernisation.
Nestled in the Byron Bay hinterland, Newrybar is a charming village just a 15–20-minute drive from the coastline. Known for its serene ambiance, the area features expansive plots of land that combine privacy, luxury, and breathtaking views, making it a highly sought-after destination for those seeking premium rural retreats.
The newly refurbished Cedar Hill property in Newrybar features two luxury residences and private amenities.
The wastewater solution includes twin Home Sewage Treatment Plants with a buffer tank up front.
The wastewater system is installed below ground at the edge of the gardens and will disapear from view after landscaping is complete.
A polymer buffer tank captures the wastewater which then flows to the dual advanced secondary HSTPs.
Treated effluent is dispersed to the environment underground via sub surface drip irrigation which keeps the grounds green during dry weather.
The Cedar Hill property is located in the beautiful Byron hinterland.
Wastewater solutions for dual occupancy development
Our environmental consultants conducted a thorough site assessment and found no constraints to wastewater management. The property lies within the Wilson River Water Drinking Catchment but outside a priority oyster-growing area. No waterways exist within 100 metres of the site. There is a registered bore on a neighbouring lot and a small, temporary, drain over 55 metres from the northern boundary that carries water only during wet periods.
The proposed development included a detached dual occupancy and Class 10 ancillary facilities. The plans involved demolishing and rebuilding a brick veneer dwelling while repurposing part of an existing shed to create a six-bedroom home (dwelling 1). Additionally, the existing two-bedroom cottage would be converted into a detached dual-occupancy dwelling (dwelling 2).
True Water assessed the overall wastewater design load and determined it would exceed the typical domestic range of 10EP. However, the layout of the two residences and outbuildings allowed for two separate Household Sewage Treatment Plants (HSTPs) to collect and treat wastewater. Under the plan, wastewater from dwelling 1 (9EP) would drain to one Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), while wastewater from dwelling 2 (3EP) would gravity drain to a second STP.
Enhanced system efficiency and compliance
During the approvals process, the building plans changed, removing the gym and studio from the final layout. As a result, True Water adjusted the wastewater management system design, consolidating the two systems into a single location. The updated site-specific solution featured two Fuji Clean Household Sewage Treatment Plants (HSTPs) and a 3000L polymer balance tank to store excess wastewater and release it steadily into each HSTP. This design ensured efficient operation and prevented system overload.
True Water oversaw the entire project, from securing council approvals to minimising on-site disruption. Our technicians collaborated closely with all stakeholders, meticulously planned the installation, used advanced equipment, and ensured full compliance with local regulations. The installation process included system connection, excavation, and backfilling.
The design incorporated a 610m² Subsurface Drip Irrigation Land Application Area (LAA). For dwelling 1, AS/NZS 1547:2012 standards required a 308.6m² LAA, but local climate modelling increased the size to 360m² for optimal performance. Similarly, the LAA for dwelling 2 was increased from 174.8m² to 250m² for enhanced efficiency. After commissioning the WWTS, True Water provided the client with a “Works As Executed” (WAE) document, which included council approval records, system registration, and warranty details.
Sustainable FujiClean HSTP provides long-term reliability
True Water’s specialist sewage services earned the trust of the owner, architect, and builder of Cedar House. Drawing on extensive industry experience, we streamlined the regulatory approval process, providing the project team with a smooth and stress-free experience. The client now enjoys significant benefits from the FujiClean HSTP, which delivers advanced secondary wastewater treatment.
This innovative system combines a compact design with exceptional performance, environmental sustainability, and low operating costs. Installed below ground, it integrates seamlessly into the landscape, preserving the property’s value and appeal while protecting the environment. Its sealed construction blocks insects and pests, and its quiet, odour-free operation ensures user comfort. The wastewater generated by the dual occupancy property is collected, treated and dispersed out of sight and out of mind from the guests enjoying their stay.
Maintaining the system is simple and cost-effective due to its robust engineering, lack of moving parts, and straightforward upkeep. CJ Septic Servicing, our certified maintenance provider for Cedar House, ensures reliable performance through specialised training, minimising costly long-term repairs. The system’s 15-year tank warranty and two-year warranty on electrical components further enhance operational security and cost savings.
