Stage one water restrictions incoming for Whitemark

Stage one water restrictions incoming for Whitemark

Whitemark is the latest Tasmanian town to move onto water restrictions as dry conditions tighten supply on Flinders Island.

Stage one restrictions will come into effect in Whitemark on Wednesday, 6 May.

TasWater Acting Head of Communications and Engagement Jess Sargent said stage one restrictions aim to reduce non-essential water use by 20 per cent by encouraging more conscious use of water.   

"With a lack of medium to long term forecasted rainfall for the island and across much of the state, we are calling on the community to reduce their water usage,’’ Mrs Sargent said. 

"Conditions have been very dry across the state for the first four months of this year, leading to higher water usage, and despite some recent showers, the outlook from the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts drier than average conditions over the coming months.

“Stage one restrictions are about small, practical changes - shorter showers, smarter water use - that make a real difference when everyone pitches in.

“As a state, we use more water per household than most of the country - giving us a real opportunity to lead the way in water-wise habits.

“We’re also asking locals to remind visiting friends and family to follow the restrictions.’’ 

The restrictions will remain in place until further notice. 

Lady Barron, Scamander and Oatlands are also currently on stage one restrictions. Orford and Triabunna are on stage three restrictions and, unless significant rainfall occurs in the coming weeks, those towns may shortly face a further escalation to stage four restrictions.

“We always encourage Tasmanians, no matter where they live, to conserve water and ‘Save Our Thing’. We are encouraging every Tasmanian to save just 10 litres of water per person per day,” Mrs Sargent said. 

For up-to date system information, go to Water supply status | TasWater  

Water restriction guidelines | TasWater