General News
8 April, 2026
Local drop makes top three
It might not be the best-tasting tap water in Victoria, but Hopetoun's water is certainly up there.
Earning the title of the Best Tasting Tap Water in the state was Bendigo, with Colac and Hopetoun making the final three.
The local plant is operated by Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water, and suppliers of water across the state are invited to contribute a sample to the Water Industry Operations Association of Australia for judging.
The final taste test was held in Bendigo on March 26.
The annual IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water competition is a fun and engaging way to celebrate the high quality of Australia’s drinking water while acknowledging the dedication of local water service providers in delivering the essential resource to their communities.
Samples undergo a blind taste test and are evaluated using the Water Tasting Wheel, which highlights key attributes such as colour, clarity, odour and taste, much like a wine tasting, but with samples the judges can drink.
The winner of the 2026 IXOM Best Tasting Tap Water in Australia title will have the opportunity to represent Australia at the annual Berkeley Springs International Water Tasting Competition in West Virginia, USA.