2007 Press Release

New Water Wise Project for Island Communities

07/03/2007

Torres Strait communities will now be able to participate in the management and conservation of their islands’ water resources with seventeen new usage signs to be installed across the region.

The Torres Strait Regional Authority’s (TSRA) Portfolio Member for Health and the Environment, Mr Walter Mackie, said the aim of this $35,000 initiative is to increase awareness and understanding of this precious resource.

“TSRA’s Land and Sea Management Unit is pleased to be working in partnership with the Australian Government’s Natural Heritage Trust and the Island Coordinating Council’s Infrastructure Support Unit (Program Manager) to implement this new community-based approach to water conservation.

“Communities need to be informed on the importance of saving water, the cost of water, and to take part in developing water saving approaches that are suitable to their island’s requirements. 

“Our islands have limited water supplies which are highly dependent on annual rainfall and underground stores, and often when reserves are depleted, the only options available to communities are emergency barged water and water provided through portable desalination units.

“In addition, many are not aware of the importance of the water cycle to the existence of natural flora and fauna - for example, as the underground water supply decreases in size through overuse, it adversely affects the health of trees along the shoreline, eroding their numbers and inturn sand banks.

“Through this project, we hope to build community capacity by involving the region’s Water Officers and Councils to assist community members to not only be aware of their water usage, but also to play a role in promoting the sustainable use of water and becoming more informed of the natural water cycle.

“Communities can look at reducing water consumption and wastage by introducing new techniques such as changing household water use behaviour, reporting leaking taps and recycling grey water.

“They will also be encouraged and given assistance to apply for additional financial support, should they wish to develop and expand this project further.

“Water is essential to the livelihood of our families and natural environment, and we as community members, all need to be water wise and play our part in conserving this valuable resource,” said Mr Mackie.

The new aluminium water signage will be installed by each Island Council and will keep communities informed on: their current water usage; if a water restriction is in place; and the details and duration of the restriction enforced by Council.

ENDS

TSRA Media Contact: Susan Reilly. Ph: 07 4069 0700

Island Coordinating Council Infrastructure Support Unit Media Contact: Stuart Duncan. Ph: 07 4069 2672