Bundaberg water allocations at 100%

Bundaberg irrigators will have access to their full water entitlement until the end of June 2022.

Due to recent rainfall and inflows into Paradise Dam, allocations for all growers in the region are now 100 per cent.

“The allocation for medium priority customers in the Burnett sub-scheme has been raised from 22 to 100 per cent,” Sunwater Executive General Manager Operations Colin Bendall said.

“Paradise Dam is full, as are downstream storages Ned Churchward Weir and Ben Anderson Barrage, with rainfall received across the region.

“After 24 months of dry conditions, this is welcome news for local growers as it provides them with greater certainty for the months ahead.

“It is good to receive significant rainfall this early in the wet season as there is always the possibility of further falls throughout the summer.

“It is important to note allocations cannot decrease during the water year.”

High priority irrigators in the Burnett sub-scheme and all customers in the Kolan sub-scheme also have 100 per cent of their allocation.

Mr Bendall said the Essential Works undertaken at Paradise Dam have enhanced its capacity to pass water during weather events.

“While the recent rain and river flows have been relatively minor, the dam is now able to withstand largescale storms up to a 1 in 5000-year event,” he said.

“The dam is safe – and this has always been the priority both for residents living downstream and the long-term water security needs of irrigators.”

The Queensland Government is expected to make a decision on the long-term future of Paradise Dam by the end of the year.