Irrigators, industrial water users urged to identify water needs

Interested parties who attended the Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Collaborative’s recent information sessions are being urged to identify their future potential water demand, with the deadline now extended to 20 September and assistance available to complete the form.

Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor Tanya Milligan said information on current and future water demand was crucial for assessing the viability and infrastructure needs of the Lockyer Valley and Somerset Water Security Scheme (LVSWSS), which aims to meet the region’s future water demands.

“Accurate and up-to-date information from growers and industrial water users is essential in providing an indication to government that there is a demand for more water in the region, both now and into the future,” she said.

“The LVSWSS will help to secure the future of our horticulture and other water-reliant industries for generations to come, and proven demand and interest from irrigators and industrial water users will help us substantiate the necessary infrastructure investment.”

Somerset Regional Council Mayor Jason Wendt said the deadline for water users to submit the non-binding form had been extended and assistance was now available for anyone seeking assistance with the questionnaire.

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for people to be involved in this project so we want to make it as easy as possible,” he said.

“We have now received significant funding from government to explore the viability of this project and are making solid progress, so it’s vital we get as many respondents as possible.”

If successful, the LVSWSS will increase the reliability of water supply to farms and industry in key parts of the Lockyer Valley and Somerset regions, providing enhanced food security and opportunities for long-term jobs stability and growth.

Water Collaborative Chair Paul Lucas encouraged those unsure about responding to think long-term.

“We know drought will come again and climate variability will make it worse; this project will safeguard livelihoods, enhance sustainability and yield economic growth,” he said.

“Lockyer Valley and Somerset Regional councils have been heavily invested in and advocating for this strategic project for many years, as have our growers, and we’re seeing the payoff from that.”

First proposed in 2018, the LVSWSS is part of the Water Initiatives in the Lockyer Valley commitment being delivered under the South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal. The $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal is a partnership between the Australian and Queensland governments and the Council of Mayors (SEQ), which will see 29 commitments being delivered to generate long-lasting benefits for the fast-growing region.

To access assistance or to request the demand questionnaire form, visit https://lvandswatercollaborative.com.au/