Water group updates
Water security for the Southern Downs
This remains an ongoing challenge for the region. Notably since the community consultation period on the Regional Water Assessments [RWA] closed the discussion seems to have gone quiet. However, SDRC, our regional water manager, continues to progress discussions with key department recently receiving a special briefing from the responsible minister. A motion in support of the 3 key RWA recommendations was moved in the July council meeting (see here).
GBSAN water group remains active on this important issue and continues to engage in thoughtful discussions across the community on the matter.
Smart meter roll out continues in Southern Downs
SDRC advises over 4,500 smart water meters have been installed across the Southern Downs, with 620 in Warwick this year and the installation of 2,700 meters in Stanthorpe since October 2022. This all form part of a $5 million drought resilience project.
According to council, smart meters has resulted in water savings and leak detection of 365,376 kilolitres of water, valued at $1,037,669.
And speaking of meters
As of 31st March 2024, the compulsory installation of validated water meters for all drawings from ground and river sources should now have been completed across the Southern Downs (and all of QLD). This is a positive step to regions water management and control protecting all regional water users and dependent businesses from inappropriate water extraction. Overtime the data obtained will assist in better water planning decisions across the regions.
Northern Basin Regional Community Forum.
GBSAN continues to participate in the Northern Basin Regional Community Forum. This provides an avenue to engage with common interest issues across the region
Want to know more about the Basin Plan?
Important changes are helping the Australian Government deliver the Murray−Darling Basin Plan in full. Check out the following fact sheets outlining water recovery in a way that balances the needs of our communities and our environment.