Water restrictions for the Riverina have been eased following heavy rainfall and lower temperatures. Photo: Leif Christoph Gottwald.
Riverina Water has officially reverted to Stage 1 restrictions, with lowered water demands and favourable weather, including heavy rain, contributing to the limits being lifted.
According to Riverina Water, recent milder weather and strong community cooperation have helped ease pressure on the water supply system.
However, Riverina Water is urging residents to remain cautious, emphasising that conditions across the region remain dry, and customers should continue to use water wisely.
Stage 2 water restrictions were brought in on 27 January, when the Riverina endured its longest stretch of days exceeding 40 degrees Celsius on record.
The restrictions meant no-one was allowed to water lawns with sprinklers from 7 am to 7 pm, and refilling of private pools was banned.
Riverina Water CEO Andrew Crakanthorp thanked the community for its response during the recent period of higher restrictions before announcing the revised conditions.
“We saw a clear reduction in demand after Stage 2 restrictions were introduced, which shows how effective community action can be,” Mr Crakanthorp said.
“While demand is now more manageable and forecasts are more favourable, it’s important to remember that conditions remain dry. Stage 1 restrictions provide a sensible baseline to help protect water supplies as we move forward.”
Under Stage 1 restrictions:
• Lawns and gardens must not be watered between 10 am and 5 pm, unless using a handheld hose
• Paved areas must not be hosed down between 10 am and 5 pm, unless using a handheld hose
• There are no restrictions on filling private swimming pools or on washing motor vehicles.
Riverina Water said it would continue to closely monitor water demand and weather conditions, and would provide further updates as necessary.
“Customers are encouraged to remain mindful of their water use and to continue following Stage 1 water restrictions to help ensure a reliable water supply for the whole community,” Mr Crakanthorp said.
For more information about water restrictions, visit rwcc.nsw.gov.au/restrictions. For water-saving tips, head to the Riverina Water website here.
