Western Downs Regional Council has announced it has elevated its water restriction levels for parts of the region as part of its responsible water management program.

The changes will affect residents connected to the Dalby supply, and will take effect from midnight Sunday, 17 November.

Council’s Spokesperson for Utilities Peter Saxelby said while Council has plans in place to ensure continued water supply to all towns, recent changes were necessary as dry conditions continue.

“Council has effective plans in place to ensure our communities have continued access to water, however as our region continues to deal with dry weather conditions, we need to ensure we are managing our water supply responsibly,” Cr Saxelby said.

“While the community has been working hard to tighten their water usage across the region, Council has found that some towns, such as Dalby and Tara, are not reaching water conservation targets – and this has led to Council reconsidering the water restriction levels.

“Council is urging residents to think about how they’re using water at home, and to consider how they can potentially save more water as part of their daily routine. It’s also a timely reminder to people that absolutely no outside watering of any kind is allowed on Mondays.”

Dalby will move to a ‘conservation’ water restriction level which means a target of 300L per person, per day. Handheld hoses are still able to be used under a ‘conservation’ restriction, however people can only undertake watering activities between 6am and 9am and 4pm and 7pm on their designated watering days.

Tara will remain at a ‘conservation’ water restriction level, however to ensure residents are adhering to the restrictions, Council will be increasing patrols and compliance action in Tara, and across the region more generally.

Residents are encouraged to visit Council’s website via www.wdrc.qld.gov.au to learn more about how water restrictions affect them and are also encouraged to follow Council’s Facebook for the latest information, tips and hints for saving water.

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