COLIBAN Water managing director Geoff Michell will retire on July 1.
Mr Michell, who came under constant criticism during the Goulburn to Lake Eppalock pipeline debate,
announced his retirement to staff and the public yesterday afternoon.
The 57-year-old said after 36 years in the construction and water industries, it was time to do other things.
“My goals in retirement are to spend more time with family and friends, to do some travelling and to pursue some personal interests,” he said.
Mr Michell said he has thoroughly enjoyed his time as chief executive officer and managing director at Coliban Water for the past 10 years.
“There have been massive changes in the water industry and it has been exciting to be part of it all - I’ve had the privilege of working with a great team,” he said.
”We have achieved some very significant outcomes in my time with Coliban Water, which have been both challenging and rewarding.”
Mr Michell listed the achievements as improvements in water quality, sewering 20 towns,  the pipeline and the recycled water project.
Coliban chairman John Brooke said Mr Michell has done an outstanding job, particularly in the past few years with the challenges of a continuing lack of water.
“Geoff’s legacy is a very robust, high performing business which has delivered innovative infrastructure bringing high levels of service for Bendigo and throughout the Coliban region for many years to come,” he said.
Mr Brooke said Mr Michell was well regarded in the water industry, particularly for effective use of the private sector in project and service delivery.
“The board and I are pleased for Geoff but we are also sorry to lose him from Coliban Water,” he said.
“He has been a great asset for Coliban, and in my view, for the north central region.”
The board will chose a new managing director.