MEDIA RELEASE - LAKE WOORABINDA

It was great news for all when the pump was finally turned on to fill Lake Woorabinda.

The lake has been empty since 2017 but now after many years of lobbying the State Government, Carrathool Shire Council has been successful in getting the necessary permissions to “turn on the pump”.

Pumping started last Sunday and the pump is putting 26 megalitres per day of water into the lake. It’s expected that the lake will be full by this weekend.

 “This is truly a good news story for everyone,” Carrathool Shire Council Mayor, Darryl Jardine, said today.

“Its good news for the Hillston community who use the parks around the lake, its good news for the ski club, and its good news for our visitors who haven’t had the opportunity to stretch their legs along the walking track for many years.”

Cr Jardine went on to explain the long process of obtaining the necessary permissions from the various Government agencies.

“Basically, Council has its own river water allocation which is wasn’t allowed to use because of drought conditions throughout the whole Lachlan River system. Now that Council has gained the necessary approvals, we are happy to give that water to be used to fill Lake Woorabinda.”

“Council recognizes the importance to the Shire’s overall amenity of having a full lake, and that was why we kept lobbying the government to get the approval to turn on the pump”.

Paul Cleton from the Hillston District Aquatic Club agrees that a full Lake Woorabinda is a good start for 2021.

“The Club was pleased that Council had gained funding in 2018 to laser-level the bottom of the lake and improve the lake walls which enabled the walking track to be constructed. This was a significant piece of work which was completed by 2019. Then we worked in conjunction with Council for the next 18 months to get the required approvals to start pumping.”

Because of the late start to the 2021 ski season, the Aquatic Club has generously waived all user fees for skiing this summer; however, all licences, insurances and permits need to be current. Mr Cleton urged all skiers to contact the Club on [email protected] for further information.