OVER $3 MILLION IN WATER REBATES FOR THE FRASER COAST

More than $3 million in rebates has been paid out to Fraser Coast residents who have purchased rainwater tanks, water-efficient washing machines and other water-saving products.

Water Minister Craig Wallace said the Bligh Government had provided $3,009,825 funding to Fraser Coast residents under its Home and Garden Waterwise Rebate Scheme.

In particular, he said people buying new washing machines at mid-year sales should remember the $200 Bligh Government rebate on eligible water-saving models.

Minister Wallace will be in Maryborough and Hervey Bay this weekend with Premier Anna Bligh, her Cabinet and the State's senior public servants for the Bligh Government's seventh Community Cabinet.

"I’m pleased the people of the Fraser Coast region have really got behind the rebate scheme and are doing their bit to conserve water," Mr Wallace said.

Member for Hervey Bay, Andrew McNamara, congratulated local residents for using the scheme.

"The Fraser Coast community should be applauded for their efforts to conserve water," he said.

"I would encourage everyone to continue using the scheme and applying for rebates for water saving products."

Residents in the Fraser Coast area have received $3,009,825 in rebates for the following products:

• $2,343,077 for 2388 rainwater tanks
• $550,200 for 2751 water-efficient washing machines
• $59,750 for 399 dual-flush toilets
• $25,400 for 127 pool covers and/or rollers
• $23,794 for 510 water-efficient garden products and plants
• $6543 for 283 water-efficient showerheads
• $1,060 for 29 greywater systems and diverters

Currently the scheme is processing around 360 rebates a day for washing machines as people buy new water-efficient washing machines at mid-year sales.

"The Home and Garden Waterwise Rebate Scheme has been an unprecedented success with more than $264 million in rebates being paid out statewide," Mr Wallace said.

"Rebates include $200 for 4-star or better water-rated washing machines and $150 for dual-flush toilets," Mr Wallace said.

A full list of eligible products, fact sheets and application forms are available on the Natural Resources and Water Department website www.nrw.qld.gov.au/water/saverscheme

Mr Wallace said the Community Cabinet was part of the Bligh Government's commitment to listening to Queenslanders concerns on their own home turf.

"It is part of taking on board the community’s views as the Premier and Government plan for the future," Mr Wallace said.