Water Supply Update for Kangaroo Island Residents and Primary Producers
Kangaroo Island residents and primary producers are encouraged to stay informed about the current water situation, following a water meeting held in Kingscote Tuesday afternoon. The meeting was convened by PIRSA and attended by government agencies and local groups via Zoom.
Mayor Michael Pengilly provided the following update for the community:
"The Middle River Dam is at around 60% capacity, which is above the average for this time of year. Our desalination plant is running at full capacity, with some of its production being mixed into the Kingscote supply at the Airport Turnoff facility. There are no plans to introduce water rationing, as the desalination plant continues to ensure a reliable supply of potable water for Kangaroo Island."
He continued:
"We are seeing increasing demand for stock water as dry weather continues, and many dams are drying up. Evaporation levels are high, which is putting additional strain on farmers. Mumford’s Dam on the Northside currently has around 140 ML of water available for stock. Farmers who wish to access this water should contact the Mumford family directly."
"Many Kangaroo Island farmers are investing in tanks and piping to water their sheep and cattle in order to maintain their stock. This is a very stressful time for many families, especially those in the South Coast, Haines, MacGillivray, Wisanger, and Menzies districts. We are all hoping for early autumn rains to provide some relief."
Mayor Pengilly also highlighted the ongoing support available through Rural Aid for primary producers, including:
- Counselling and Wellbeing: Free, confidential counselling services are available for farmers and their families. Rural Aid’s trained counsellors can meet on-farm, in town, or over the phone. The Counselling Intake Line is available Monday to Friday from 9 am to 4 pm AEDST at 1300 175 594.
- Financial Assistance: Farmers affected by declared natural disasters can apply for financial aid through Rural Aid's online application process.
- Fodder Support: Rural Aid provides fodder assistance to farmers impacted by drought. Primary producers can complete an online form for support.
- Domestic Water Deliveries: Rural Aid coordinates the delivery of potable water to farmers in need of household water. Registered farmers can request a load of water once every three months, either through their preferred water carter or one sourced by Rural Aid.
For more information on any of these services, please visit www.ruralaid.org.au or email disasterassistance@ruralaid.org.au.
Additionally, if you are experiencing financial difficulties, the Kangaroo Island Council offers a Hardship – Deferred Rates Payment option. Please reach out to the Council at 8553 4500 or email kicouncil@kicouncil.sa.gov.au to apply and for further assistance.
This remains a challenging time for many families, and the Council is committed to supporting the community through these difficult conditions.