Water might last only 15 years

CASEY residents have been urged to attend two public meetings to talk about how to deal with the state’s water shortages.
South East Water this week warned customers that demand for water in Melbourne could outstrip supply within 15 years.
South East Water managing director Dennis Cavagna said if water users did not act on long-term strategies for dealing with climate change they might not have sufficient water in the future, especially as Melbourne’s population continues to grow.
The warning follows the release of the Victorian Government’s plan to secure Melbourne’s water supplies for future generations. The draft Central Region Sustainable Water Strategy aims to secure water supplies for home, business, industry, farms and the environment for the next 50 years.
Two public meetings will be held in Narre Warren to allow local residents to provide input into the proposals.
Mr Cavagna said that all water users should have their say in the proposals outlined in the draft strategy.
“With sensitive areas such as the Mornington Peninsula, Western Port and the Pakenham growth corridor falling in South East Water’s service area, it is important that our customers provide input into this crucial water policy document.”
A copy of the draft strategy is available by contacting the Department of Sustainability and Environment on 136 186 or visiting www.dse.vic.gov.au
The two meetings will be held on Monday, 22 May at 3.30pm and 6.30pm at the Casey council chambers, Magid Drive, Narre Warren.“We encourage everyone interested in securing our water future to read the draft strategy, come to the meeting and consider the proposals for Melbourne’s south-east.
“We seek input from individuals, businesses, councils, community groups and environmental organisations to ensure that this plan provides long-term solutions to the problems that we face.”