Bore Development in Victoria: Restoring Flow and Water Quality
- Supreme Drilling
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
What Is Bore Development and When Is It Needed?
Over time, even well-constructed bores can lose efficiency. Sediment builds up, fine particles block the bore screen, or biofilms reduce water quality. Bore development is the process of restoring a bore to its best performance by removing these obstructions and re-establishing natural flow from the surrounding aquifer.
You may need bore development in Victoria if:
Your water pressure or yield has dropped.
Pumping causes the water to look cloudy or sandy.
You notice unusual tastes or odours in your water.
The bore has been newly drilled and requires initial development before use.
In short, bore development is about protecting your investment and keeping water safe and reliable.
Methods of Bore Development
Different situations call for different techniques. The main methods used in Victoria include:
Airlifting
Compressed air is forced down the bore, lifting water and debris to the surface. This is particularly effective at removing fine particles and clearing blockages around the bore screen.
Surging
Water is moved rapidly back and forth through the bore screen, dislodging clays, sands, and other materials that restrict flow. Surging is often used during the initial development of new bores.
Screen Cleaning
If the bore screen is clogged with scale, iron bacteria, or biofilm, mechanical or chemical cleaning may be needed. This improves both water quality and pumping efficiency.
A professional driller will assess which method (or combination) is best suited for your bore’s condition.
Results to Expect and How Long They Last
The benefits of bore development are usually immediate:
Increased water yield.
Reduced sand or sediment in the water.
Improved clarity and taste.
More stable pumping pressure.
Results typically last for several years, depending on the groundwater conditions and how the bore is used. In sandy aquifers, more frequent maintenance may be required.
Maintenance vs Redrilling: How to Decide
Sometimes bore development is enough to restore flow. But in cases where the aquifer has changed or the bore construction is failing, redrilling may be the better option. Signs that development alone may not solve the issue include:
Structural damage to the casing or screen.
Severely depleted aquifer levels.
Repeated rapid clogging after development.
A licensed driller can inspect the bore and recommend whether to proceed with development or plan for a new bore.
How Supreme Drilling Can Help
At Supreme Drilling, we use proven bore development methods including airlifting, surging, and screen cleaning to restore performance. Our experienced team can:
Assess the condition of your bore.
Carry out the most effective development technique.
Advise on future maintenance to keep yield stable.
We work across Victoria to ensure your bore remains a reliable water source for years to come.
If your bore isn’t performing as it should, don’t wait until it fails completely. Bore development is often faster and more cost-effective than redrilling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my bore needs development?
Signs include reduced yield, cloudy water, sediment, or unusual taste and odour. A driller’s inspection can confirm the cause.
How long does bore development take?
Most jobs can be completed within a day, though heavily clogged bores may require additional time.
Will development increase yield?
In most cases, yes. Development improves water flow by clearing obstructions, which can restore or even enhance yield compared to the bore’s recent performance.
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