Glen Innes has moved to Level 3 water restrictions after a further drop in levels at the Beardy Weir and continued high water use across the town.
Glen Innes Severn Council said recent inspections show the weir is now 1,000 millimetres below full supply level, triggering Level 3 restrictions under its Drought Management Plan. The measures are now in force across Glen Innes.
General manager Bernard Smith said the decision reflects current conditions and the need for early action to safeguard supply.
“While many people are already making an effort to use water wisely, demand in Glen Innes is still higher than recommended for dry conditions,” Smith said.
“Level 3 restrictions are about protecting our water supply and giving us the best chance to manage through the coming months.”
Under Level 3, tighter limits apply to non-essential water use, including garden watering, vehicle washing and filling swimming pools. Key rules include bucket-only garden watering for up to two hours a day, a 2,000-litre cap on private pool filling, and bucket-only washing of paved areas, roofs and vehicles. Public gardens and sports grounds must use recycled or reused water, while bowling greens can be watered with a hand-held hose for up to two hours daily.
Smith said average consumption in Glen Innes is about 250 litres per person per day, above the Level 3 target of 160–180 litres.
“Reducing everyday water use, indoors as well as outdoors, will make a real difference. Small changes across the whole community add up quickly,” he said.
Nearby Deepwater has also seen falling water levels, prompting a shift to Level 2 restrictions. Council said restriction levels differ between towns based on local supply conditions and will be reviewed as needed.
Mayor Margot Davis said the council’s Integrated Water Cycle Management Plan, now in development, would provide a long-term strategy for water supply and sewerage.
“Whilst we cannot prevent dry periods, this plan will ensure we continue to be well positioned and have the infrastructure in place to manage this valuable resource in an optimum way. We expect it to be completed by the end of the year,” Davis said.
Residents can check current restrictions and permitted water use on the council website or by contacting Glen Innes Severn Council.
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