Target 155: If We Held Out For The Rain...

If we Held Out for the Rain we Would Have Made T155

Two hot days were all it took to push Melbourne well over Target 155 this week, as Melburnians used on average 165 litres per person per day.

This week's consumption figures highlight the significant impact just two days of hot weather can have on Melbourne's water usage, and suggests a possible over reaction to the temporary increase in temperatures

"Our average daily water use has surged by more than 60 litres a day from the beginning of the week. Our consumption figures on Tuesday and Wednesday were akin to those of last February - when we were really suffering due to little rain and scorching temperatures," explains Tony Kelly, Target 155 Spokesperson and Managing Director of Yarra Valley Water.

"Now after only the two days of typical summer heat, we are using water as we would in the midst of extreme heatwave conditions - a concerning trend at this time of year, with at least three months of hot weather still ahead of us.

We strongly urge customers to check weather forecasts before watering, as the rainfall received on Thursday would have been sufficient instead of watering gardens with precious tap water on Tuesday and Wednesday," said Mr Kelly.

Water authorities are also urging residents to undertake essential summer preparations such as servicing evaporative air conditioners, using blinds to keep interiors cool and repositioning sun sensitive pots to shadier parts of the garden. Taking these small steps and adhering to Stage 3a restrictions will be very important throughout summer - when consumption rises and reservoir levels can fall relatively quickly.

"Stage 3a stage restrictions and Target 155 are vital tools to ensure we don't deplete storages unnecessarily during summer. It's the worst time of year to become complacent," said Mr Kelly.

Melbourne's water storages continue to hover around 38 per cent - their second lowest level for the start of summer - confirming the need to create drought-resistant water sources. Work is currently underway to build Australia's largest desalination plant, to upgrade irrigation channels and to expand the water grid. But until these projects start delivering their full benefits to the community, the need to keep diligently saving water remains.

For more water saving tips and information head to
www.target155.vic.gov.au

For Additional information or for Interviews
Caroline Doherty, Media Manager - Target 155
T(03) 9872 2473 M:0421 465 274
[email protected]

Rainfall Storages and Rainfall Data
Nick McGay, Melbourne Water
T(03) 9235 2278 M: 0438 981 836
[email protected]

Under Stage 3a Water Restrictions:
* Lawns must not be watered at any time
* Even and no-numbered properties can water plants on Saturday and Tuesday 6am - 8am
* Odd-numbered properties can water plants on Sunday and Wednesday 6am - 8am
* Residents aged 70+ can water plants on their specified days between 6am - 8am OR the alternate time of 8am - 10am
* Automatic dripper systems can be used to water plants on specified watering days between midnight - 2am
* Rain/ grey water can be used at any time
* Cars can be washed at commercial car washes or at home using rain/grey water
* No watering is permitted on Monday, Thursday and Friday.


SOURCE: Target 155