A moratorium on the construction of bores in parts of the Bundaberg area has been amended to allow for some exemptions, Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace announced today.

Mr Wallace said the moratorium – which came into effect in October 2003 – applied to new subartesian works or work that enlarged, deepened or changed existing bores in the Coastal Burnett Groundwater Area.

“The amendment will allow for bores to be constructed and water taken in accordance with some licences which have been subdivided since the moratorium was announced,” Mr Wallace said.

“A small number of licence holders are unable to access their water entitlement because of the current provisions which prevent the drilling of a bore.”

Mr Wallace said a Water Resource Plan was being developed for the Coastal Burnett Groundwater Area to provide a framework for the sustainable allocation of groundwater over the next 10 years.

“We want to look after the future sustainability of groundwater resources in the Bundaberg area by ensuring the rate at which we take water out is not more than the natural recharge of the system,” Mr Wallace said.

For more information on the amendments to the moratorium, contact the Department’s Water Services group in Bundaberg on free call 1800 135 531.

Media inquiries: Paul Childs, Craig Wallace’s office, on 0407 131 654.