Flows in Canungra Creek have continued to drop as dry weather continues.
Seqwater is closely monitoring flows in the town’s water source, Canungra Creek, which have dropped below 15 megalitres per day.
Local residents are concerned about the number of water trucks drawing directly from the creek to water roads on nearby developments.
Sarabah grazier Debra Geldard said she is horrified by unmonitored trucks being able to draw from the creek.
“It is just unbelievable. I’m just gobsmacked that they are allowed to do that,” she said.
“When this creek goes down we will be buying water for our cattle but those companies will be getting it for free and no-one really knows how much water they are taking out.”
“We can notice up here – all of a sudden the creek will drop dramatically.”
The Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water said taking water for the purpose of constructing or maintaining infrastructure is permitted, subject to several conditions.
Seqwater and Urban Utilities have a joint plan to manage drought response in Canungra, which will be activated if flows in the creek fall below seven megalitres per day.
Urban Utilities spokesperson Michelle Cull said keeping the community informed is a priority.
“The community has told us that early communication about drought response is important and we will work with Seqwater to keep everyone updated,” she said.
“We know that flows in Canungra Creek can change quickly in response to weather and drought.”
“While the South East Queensland region exited drought following extreme rainfall and flooding in early 2022, there’s been a lack of rainfall over many catchments recently, including Canungra.”
Seqwater spokesperson Jamie English said Seqwater and Urban Utilities would continue working together to make sure the current and future drinking water demands for Canungra were met.
“We are closely monitoring flows in Canungra Creek and want to assure the community that current demand is being met and we stand ready with Urban Utilities to respond if creek levels continue to fall further, to ensure ongoing water supply,” she said.
Ms Cull encouraged the Canungra community to continue using water wisely during the traditional winter dry season.
“We appreciate the efforts of people in the community who are continuing to use water efficiently around their homes and gardens,” she said.
“During the drier weather, we’re reminding everyone to please continue to be mindful of their outdoor water use.”
Canungra is one of 12 towns in South East Queensland that is not connected to the SEQ Water Grid.
For information about the water supply in Canungra and to sign up for email updates, visit urbanutilities.com.au/Canungra
