Queensland Laboratory News Details

Water Feud Escalates as Level 6 Looms

Added: 14 August, 2007

CAR dealers and car washing businesses will be hit hardest when level 6 water restrictions are rolled out early next month.

The tough new water regime was yesterday criticised by the majority of Gold Coast City councillors who rallied against the State Government's intervention into local affairs.

This follows an ongoing water feud between Gold Coast Mayor Ron Clarke and his state counterparts, Premier Peter Beattie and Deputy Premier Anna Bligh.

With Hinze Dam yesterday hovering around 60 per cent, and Wivenhoe Dam just over 15 per cent, the tough new restrictions will be brought in by the Queensland Water Commission when Brisbane stocks plummet to less than 15 per cent.

Cr Susie Douglas said yesterday it was not a given that the city would allow the restrictions to be rolled out without protest.

"The Premier the other night was again talking about our water problems and that they are going to be taking water from us for Brisbane," said Cr Douglas.

"We've got to stand up and ignore them. This is our water and the Hinze Dam must be protected."

Cr Dawn Crichlow said she would vote against any moves to support the water commission's plans to bring in the restrictions.

"I cannot agree with any of this. We're coming into spring and what about those people who grow lettuce, what are they going to do?" she said.

"It would be cruel to take away the gardens from the older residents. We cannot support this."

Level 6 restrictions are similar to level 5 but will include a complete ban on any outdoor water activity, with outdoor taps not to be used.

Car dealers will be banned from using water to wash their cars while car washing businesses, which have boomed since level 5, will see tighter restrictions on their water usage with tougher water pressure levels and a possible increase in water prices.

Deputy Mayor David Power and the councillors sent back five points of concern to the commission request for feedback.

"There is disappointment and frustration at the continual lack of time given by the water commission at the response of consultation regarding water restrictions," he said.

The feud relates to Cr Clarke's claims that Mr Beattie 'hijacked' the $1.2 billion Tugun desalination plant.