Helping Preps choose tap

As the school year begins, Westernport Water is proud to celebrate the 10th year of its Prep Water Bottle Initiative, continuing its commitment to health and sustainability across local primary schools.

In 2026, 230 reusable stainless steel water bottles were provided to prep students at seven local primary schools: Newhaven Primary, Newhaven College, Cowes Primary, San Remo Primary, Bass Valley Primary, Powlett River Primary, and Our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School in Cowes.

Since the initiative began in 2017, almost 2750 bottles have been distributed to local prep students, to help kids develop positive hydration habits from the very start of their school journey.

"The initiative forms part of Westernport Water's Choose Tap Program, which promotes the health, environmental and cost benefits of drinking tap water," a Westernport Water spokesperson said.

"Encouraging students to make tap water their go-to drink supports concentration, wellbeing and early lessons in sustainability."

Westernport Water said it is proud to continue its ongoing partnership with local primary schools to support the well-being and education of our community's youngest learners.

Impact

Bree Rutherford, Assistant Principal at Cowes Primary School, said the initiative has become an important part of welcoming new students.

"This is a wonderful program, and we are very grateful to have been able to provide our prep students with reusable bottles as they begin their school journey over the past few years.

"With the installation of the new water fountain, funded through your grant, it will be easier than ever for students to refill their bottles."

Cath Huther, Head of Junior School at Newhaven College, said the initiative is welcomed each year.

"We loved participating again this year.

"The initiative has always been a wonderful addition to our welcome packs, and we are grateful for Westernport Water's continued support.

"Thank you once again for your efforts and dedication to this initiative."

Learn more about the Prep water bottle initiative at: www.westernportwater.com.au