Tourist town growth sucks up water resources

POPULATION growth in certain North East towns has impacted water consumption and resources during 2024, with Bright topping the list for tree change residents and tourists. North East Water acting managing director John Day said year-to-year variations in water consumption are primarily influenced by climate factors such as heat and rainfall, with customer behaviour often reflecting these conditions. He said population growth is another key driver of water use, and aside from climate influences, it has likely contributed to notable increases in recent years. "This trend is particularly evident in Bright, where water consumption has risen well above the five-year average," Mr Day said. The five-year average in Bright is 846 megalitres, where 1022ML was used last year. Mr Day said similar patterns have been observed in Mount Beauty, Beechworth, and Wahgunyah. Wangaratta property holders used 218ML less water in 2024 compared to the previous year, however, the region's towns elevated the overall figure to be slightly higher. Some 3084ML was used by Wangaratta and Glenrowan water users last year, Oxley was down 12ML, Moyhu up 19ML, Whitfield remaining at 21ML for the year. Across the region Beechworth was up 14ML, Yackandandah up 9ML, Wahgunyah and Rutherglen up 37ML, Myrtleford up 21 ML, Bright up 103ML, Mt Beauty up 68ML. Water usage across most of the region's towns increased slightly in 2024 compared to the previous year, with consumption in many areas either above or consistent with the five-year average. The authority has developed a 'water availability metric' and it considers volumes in storage as well as entitlement and allocation volumes for both surface water and groundwater. The metric represents the percentage of water that's available and it is currently at 63 per cent which is above average for this time of year. NEW is continuing to develop a preliminary business case for additional groundwater bores and an innovative, large-scale managed aquifer recharge (MAR) system in Wangaratta. The project aims to supplement Wangaratta’s surface and existing groundwater supplies during drought and periods of low river flows, helping to reduce the frequency and severity of water restrictions for the community. Mr Day said they are now assessing the feasibility of integrating new groundwater bores with a comprehensive environmental monitoring program. He said this will not only strengthen water security during dry periods but also offer a reliable backup during instances of poor water quality caused by floods or bushfires. “We are currently working to identify where we will install observation and trial bores this year, to find the most suitable site for the groundwater extraction and recharge," he said. “If it’s found feasible, the project would require further funding to proceed, and be delivered in three stages, with an estimated total cost of $45 million.” The authority reminds people that 'permanent water saving rules' are in effect across Victoria. These mandatory rules include using trigger nozzles on all hoses, only operating watering systems between 6pm and 10am, and avoiding the use of hoses to clean concrete paths or driveways. "We encourage everyone to keep water conservation front of mind," he said. "Small actions, like running dishwashers and washing machines only when full or taking shorter showers, can make a significant difference in water usage." For more information on how to save water visit www.waterwise.tips

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