Gardens spared but business must do better.

The Queensland Water Commission’s proposal to continue outdoor watering under level 6 restrictions has been welcomed by Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Paul Lucas.

“Retaining the ability to water the garden with a bucket, or a hose for those with exemptions, recognises the South East’s stellar effort in keeping water use to an all time low.

“The community response to the Target 140 campaign has exceeded expectations with average use per person hovering around 134 litres a day.

“It’s a good result but we can’t afford to be complacent.

“The Water Commission has made it crystal clear if water usage rises above Target 140, particularly over summer, it may have to ban garden watering altogether.

“It’s up to each and every one of us in the South East to play a part in conserving our most precious resource – and that includes business.”

Mr Lucas said the Queensland Water Commission’s increased focus on business users under level 6 has his total support.

“Businesses are the key to level 6 and fines will be enforced for those who don’t meet targets.

“The Water Commission has said household users have by and large stepped up to the plate, so have many businesses, but some are letting the side down.

“They need to follow the example set by firms like the Wesley Linen Service which has reduced water consumption by up to 60%.

“Fosters at Yatala is another, they’ve doubled production but with a modest 10 to 15% increase in water use.

“It’s imperative we all work together as a community to beat the worst drought in 100 years.

“But I want to stress the Water Commission’s fines and restrictions for level 6 are proposals, they are by no means final.

“We want the community to have a say and it will have two weeks to do so ahead of the introduction of level 6 in mid November.”

The Deputy Premier said the latest report from the QWC on the status of the State Government's drought response projects indicates they’re on time and on budget.

“It also states, based on current modelling, that our overall dam levels are expected to be above 10% when the major water projects come on line in December 2008.

“Previously dam levels had been predicted at 5% by the end of 2008 but last month’s unseasonal rain has delivered a substantial supply buffer.

“And for the first time the QWC is looking at longer term modelling for our dams.

“The Commission has found even if the driest weather on record continues for another three years, the Water Grid would ensure our dams hold at more than 7% combined capacity by June 2010.

“It clearly demonstrates the value of the $9 billion Water Grid in helping to drought proof the South East,” Mr Lucas said.

Media Contact: Darren Roberts 0448 184566.