Goulburn-Murray Water targets water theft
Despite the continued downward trend in the number of water theft incidents last irrigation season, Goulburn-Murray Water is continuing its tough stance on the practice, particularly as the season is now well underway.
Chief Executive Russell Cooper said that while it is pleasing to see a reduction in the number of incidents, it is still necessary to target water theft to protect our finite water resources for the benefit of all Goulburn‑Murray Water customers.
""It is unfortunate that legal action has been necessary in the past, but, as a responsible water authority, Goulburn-Murray Water needs to ensure that the available resources are shared appropriately and equitably,"" Mr Cooper said.
""Any water theft ultimately leads to increased prices and means there is less water available to be allocated to other customers.
""It also disrupts the delivery of water and affects the majority of customers who do the right thing.
""Now, more than ever, there is a greater chance of getting caught through increased surveillance on waterways and channel systems, and, together with tougher penalties for water theft, it is just not worth the risk.""
In 2004/05, 35 customers were investigated in regard to taking water wrongfully.
Offences are viewed very seriously by the courts, with fines and costs of up to $3,800 handed down by magistrates for a first offence in the 2004/05 irrigation season.
Courts can also impose fines of up to $12,000 or imprisonment for 12 months for a subsequent offence.
To protect the available resources for its customers, Goulburn-Murray Water is again seeking the cooperation of all water users to ensure there is no disruption to supplies due to unlawful activity.
All customers and members of the public are encouraged to report any suspected theft by calling their local Goulburn-Murray Water emergency phone number at any time.
""The vast majority of Goulburn-Murray Water's 24,000 customers do the right thing,"" Mr Cooper said.
""However, there is a small number who choose to do the wrong thing by their fellow water users, and this is when law enforcement becomes necessary.
""It is important to note that these people are not taking water from Goulburn-Murray Water, they are taking it from their fellow customers, and the laws are in place to make sure that everyone gets a fair go.""
