Waterbores
Overview
Stock & Domestic Water Bores
Reliable Water Solutions for the Riverina
Access to dependable water is essential for rural living and agricultural success. At Rivcore Drilling, we design, drill, and install high-quality stock and domestic water bores tailored to the conditions of the region. Whether you’re supplying water for livestock, household use, or rural properties, we deliver practical solutions that stand the test of time.
We bring together specialist drilling equipment and licensed drillers to install bores with precision, minimal disruption, and a focus on long-term performance.
From approvals and site assessment to drilling, pump installation, and testing — we provide end-to-end bore drilling solutions tailored to Riverina conditions.
Professional Bore Drilling Services
Our licensed team constructs water bores in accordance with NSW regulations and Minimum Construction Requirements (MCR), ensuring compliance, performance, and long-term reliability.
Our Services Include:
- Stock water bore drilling
- Domestic household water bores
- Basic Landholder Rights (BLR) bore construction
- Pump supply and installation
- Bore yield testing and performance assessment
- Assistance with Water Supply Works Approvals
Your Trusted Bore Drilling Partner in the Riverina
We combine local knowledge, strong communication, and quality workmanship to deliver water bores that work — when you need them most. Contact us today to discuss your project and secure a dependable water supply for your property.
Quote & Expression of Interest Form
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Submitted your EOI - What now?
If you are drilling a stock or domestic bore in NSW We guide you through the approval process to ensure your project is fully compliant from start to finish.
We usually start with a site visit to get the ball rolling.
- You must obtain a Water Supply Works Approval before construction. Please email your work approvals to info@rivcore.com.au
- Bore placement must comply with the relevant Water Sharing Plan (WSP).
- Distancing rules may apply to septic systems, property boundaries, fuel storage, ecosystems, and neighbouring bores.
What resource is beneath my Riverina property?
Below are typical bore depths and yields commonly encountered across the region. Actual results vary depending on location, aquifer presence, and seasonal conditions.
TYPICAL BORE DEPTHS
Shallow alluvial aquifers: 15–40 metres
Intermediate sedimentary formations: 40–90 metres
Deeper confined aquifers: 90–180+ metres
Depth is influenced by proximity to river systems, floodplains, and underlying basin geology.
TYPICAL BORE YIELDS
Stock & domestic supply: 0.5 – 2.5 litres per second (L/s)
Moderate rural demand: 2 – 5 L/s
Higher yields may be achievable in productive alluvial zones, particularly near major river systems.
GROUNDWATER CHARACTERISTICS
Water quality can range from fresh to moderately saline depending on depth and aquifer type.
Iron and mineral content may require filtration for domestic use.
Sustainable yield assessments are recommended to ensure long-term reliability.
WHAT INFLUENCES YIELD?
Local geology and aquifer thickness
Bore construction quality (casing, screen placement)
Seasonal recharge conditions
Pump selection and system design
Across much of regional New South Wales, properly constructed stock and domestic bores provide dependable year-round supply when designed to suit site-specific conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need approval to drill a stock or domestic bore?
Yes. In New South Wales, landholders must obtain a Water Supply Works Approval before constructing a bore under Basic Landholder Rights (BLR). It is an offence to construct or use a bore without approval under the Water Management Act 2000.
Rivcore friendly team can assist with navigating the approval process to ensure your bore is fully compliant before drilling begins.
Who can legally drill my bore?
Only a driller holding a current NSW Driller’s Licence of the appropriate class can construct a BLR bore. Licensed drillers must comply with the Minimum Construction Requirements (MCR) to ensure safety, environmental protection, and long-term bore integrity.
Are there rules about where a bore can be located?
Yes. Bore placement must comply with the relevant Water Sharing Plan (WSP) for your groundwater source. Distance rules may apply in relation to:
- Property boundaries
- Septic or sewage systems
- Fuel or chemical storage
- Other bores
- Groundwater-dependent ecosystems
These rules protect your water supply, neighbouring users, and the environment.
How deep will my bore need to be?
Bore depth depends on your property’s geology and the targeted aquifer. In the Riverina, stock and domestic bores typically range from 15 to 180+ metres. A site assessment helps determine the most suitable depth for reliable yield and water quality.
How much water will a stock and domestic bore produce?
Typical yields range from 0.5 to 2.5 litres per second, which is generally sufficient for household use and livestock watering. Higher yields may be achievable in productive alluvial zones, subject to hydrogeological conditions.
How long does drilling take?
Most stock and domestic bores can be completed within 1–3 days, depending on depth, ground conditions, and access. Additional time may be required for pump installation and testing.
Is the groundwater safe to drink?
Groundwater in NSW is untreated and should not automatically be considered safe for human consumption. Water quality varies significantly. Testing is strongly recommended, particularly for domestic use, and treatment systems may be required.
What pump system will I need?
Pump selection depends on bore depth, yield, and intended usage. Options may include submersible electric pumps or solar-powered systems for remote properties. We partner with leading suppliers to design systems tailored to your demand and infrastructure.
Will my bore run dry?
A properly designed bore targets sustainable aquifers and is constructed to maximise long-term performance. While seasonal fluctuations can occur, appropriate planning and yield testing significantly reduce the risk of supply issues.
Do you provide maintenance and servicing?
Yes. Regular maintenance, pump servicing, and performance checks help protect your investment and ensure consistent water supply over time.
Can I clean out my bore myself?
No, all works on groundwater bores must be undertaken by a licensed professional.