New water restrictions take effect on the Fraser Coast

Fraser Coast residents will only be permitted to use sprinklers and irrigation systems three nights a week between 6pm and 8am under level two water restrictions that take effect today.

The new restrictions will also mean residents will only be able to water gardens and fill swimming pools between 6pm and 8am each day.

Mayor George Seymour said Council was encouraging local residents to reduce their water use and was introducing level two water restrictions to slow down the depletion of our dams.

“While the recent rain has been welcome, not enough has fallen in our dam catchments with Lenthall’s Dam still sitting at about 63 per cent,” he said.

“Recent water consumption figures show a stark difference in water use on sunny days and rainy days, highlighting how much of our water use is outdoors.

“For example, on Saturday 6 March, about 26 megalitres of water was used in Hervey Bay and almost 10 megalitres was used in Maryborough, whereas on Saturday 20 March, about 16 megalitres was used in Hervey Bay and just over six megalitres was used in Maryborough.

“That shows there are certainly opportunities to save water outdoors, and that’s where level two water restrictions are targeted.”

Level Two water restrictions include:
 

• Hand held hoses are permitted between 6pm and 8am but must have a water efficient trigger nozzle;
• Irrigation systems (sprinklers, drippers, soaker hoses) are permitted on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays between 6pm and 8am only;
• Washing windows and cleaning paved or concrete surfaces, external walls or public facilities is permitted at any time but only with a water efficient, high pressure device (eg gerni);
• Boat motor and trailer flushing is permitted at any time for a maximum of five minutes at a low water flow;
• Filling of swimming pools, spas and water features is only permitted between 6pm and 8am and must be monitored at all times;
• Vehicle and boat cleaning is permitted at an time with handheld hoses (fitted with a water efficient trigger nozzle) and
• Water tanks connected to or topped up by drinking water supply are subject to the current water restrictions.

Cr Seymour said Council had links to water-wise tips on its website and had been posting tips on social media as well in recent weeks.

“It might be mulching your garden, using a swimming pool cover or checking regularly for water leaks – every little bit helps and every drop counts,” he said.

“By being water-wise, you not only save water, you also save money on your water bill.”

More information about Fraser Coast’s current water restrictions is available at https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/water-restrictions and water-wise tips are available at https://www.qld.gov.au/environment/water/residence/use/garden