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Roadside sign of the times

A sign of the times went up alongside the Phillip Island Rd recently. Summer visitors are being reminded to be careful about water use over the holidays.

By Susan Webster - 10th December 2007 - Back to News

The large trailer sign from Westernport Water will remain in place for several months, backed up by an extensive poster campaign throughout the area and water-saving hints in local papers and on the Westernport Water website (www.westernportwater.com.au)

Westernport Water is supporting the holiday campaign, together with Wannon Water and Barwon Water, which also service Victorian coastal holiday hotspots. The campaign revisits similar efforts last year that successfully curbed water use over the summer.

The water corporation’s managing director David Mawer said: "Sharp-eyed locals will notice a major difference this year; replacing Stage Four restrictions with Stage Two.

"I can well-understand some people will feel uneasy about this. The experience of last year’s water shortages was a shock for everyone.

"This year however, we’re far better-placed to cope. In fact, we’re looking at one of the best years in terms of capacity at Candowie Reservoir, and in backup water supplies.

"Since last year we have undertaken major new works to secure water supplies with bores and by pumping from the Bass River during times of high flow. At the beginning of December the reservoir was 89% full – compared with 33% in 2006.

"We have also undertaken the major drilling program to ensure good supplies of groundwater as backup." Mr Mawer added: "Even if it doesn’t rain between now and mid-year 2008, we have enough water to supply demand at Stage Two."

Westernport Water will always review water restrictions if the situation changes, he said.

"But I believe everyone – including our summer visitors – will understand the importance of careful water use. We all need to be aware just how precious water is … on the island, on the mainland, in the cities and country areas. Tourists, residents and businesses will all see the message from Westernport Water. We know they’ll see it as a vital sign of the times."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: susanw@ptarmigan.com.au

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