Avon Catchment Council Report for Surface Water Management and Self•Sufficiency Project – IWM006 Regional Water Demand and Target Setting

November 2008 Contents

Summary vi

1. Introduction 1

2. Background 2

2.1 Water Corporation Supply Regions 2 2.2 Water Corporation Supply Sources 2 2.3 Patterns of Use 3

3. Overview 5 3.1 Residential 6 3.2 Commercial and Industrial 6 3.3 Agricultural 7 3.4 Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation 7 3.5 Services, Infrastructure and Amenities 8

4. Local Government Authority (LGA) Summary 9 4.1 Total Water Use 9 4.2 Mean Annual Water Use (1995 – 2007) 9 4.3 Residential Water Use 9 4.4 Farm use 9

5. Local Government Water Use 15

5.1 15 5.2 18 5.3 20 5.4 22 5.5 24 5.6 26 5.7 28 5.8 30 5.9 32 5.10 34 5.11 36 5.12 38 5.13 40

61/18881/68965 i Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.14 42 5.15 44 5.16 46 5.17 48 5.18 50 5.19 52 5.20 54 5.21 56 5.22 58 5.23 60 5.24 62 5.25 64 5.26 66 5.27 68 5.28 70 5.29 72 5.30 Shire of Wongan•Ballidu 74 5.31 76 5.32 79 5.33 81

6. Conclusion 83

7. Forecast 86

8. References 88

Table Index Table 1 Proportion of Demand – Water use Categories 1995 • 2007 vi Table 2. National Sheep Numbers (1997 – 2006). viii Table 3 Subregional Water Use Trends • Avon River basin ix Table 4. Summary of Water Corporation Consumption by Category 3 Table 5. Wyalkatchem Population Change (Fletcher, 2008) 76 Table 6. Avon Catchment Council Investment in Water Self•Sufficiency Projects (2005 –2008) 84 Table 7. Investment from Community Water Grant 84 Table 8. Projected Investment in Community Water Grant Self•Sufficiency projects 85

61/18881/68965 ii Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure Index Figure 1. Trend in Water Use vii Figure 2 Subregional • Farm Water Use Trends vii Figure 3 Subregional Residential Water Use ix Figure 4 Water Corporation Supply and Distribution Network 4 Figure 5. Total Water Use by Local Government 11 Figure 6. Average Annual Water Use per Unit Area (ML/sq km). 12 Figure 7. Mean Annual Residential Water Use as Percentage of Mean Annual Water Use. 13 Figure 8. Mean Annual Farm Water Use as Percentage of Mean Annual Water Use 14 Figure 9. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Beverley from 1995 to 2007 16 Figure 10. Residential Water Use in the Shire of Beverley 16 Figure 11. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Beverley 17 Figure 12. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Brookton from 1995 to 2007 18 Figure 13. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Brookton (1995 – 2007). 19 Figure 14. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Bruce Rock 1995 to 2007. 20 Figure 15. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Bruce Rock 21 Figure 16. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Corrigin from 1995 to 2007. 22 Figure 17. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Corrigin 23 Figure 18. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Cunderdin from 1995 to 2007 24 Figure 19. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Cunderdin 25 Figure 20. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Dalwallinu from 1995 to 2007 26 Figure 21. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Dalwallinu 27 Figure 22. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Dowerin from 1995 to 2007 28 Figure 23. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Dowerin 29 Figure 24. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Goomalling from 1995 to 2007 30 Figure 25. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Goomalling 31 Figure 26. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kellerberrin from 1995 to 2007 32 Figure 27. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kellerberrin 33 61/18881/68965 iii Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 28. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kent from 1995 to 2007 34 Figure 29. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kent from 1996 – 2007 35 Figure 30. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kondinin from 1995 to 2007 36 Figure 31. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kondinin 37 Figure 32. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Koorda from 1995 to 2007 38 Figure 33. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Koorda from 1995•2007 39 Figure 34. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kulin from 1995 to 2007 40 Figure 35. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kulin 41 Figure 36. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Lake Grace from 1995 to 2007 42 Figure 37. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Lake Grace 43 Figure 38. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Merredin from 1995 to 2006 44 Figure 39. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Merredin 45 Figure 40. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Mount Marshall from 1995 to 2007 46 Figure 41. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Mount Marshall 47 Figure 42. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Mukinbudin from 1995 to 2007 48 Figure 43. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Mukinbudin 49 Figure 44. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Narembeen from 1995 to 2007 50 Figure 45. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Narembeen 51 Figure 46. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Northam from 1995 to 2007 52 Figure 47. Residential, Industrial and Farm Water Use in the Shire of Northam 53 Figure 48. Total Water Consumption in the Town of Northam from 1995 to 2007 54 Figure 49. Residential Water Use in the Town of Northam 55 Figure 50. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Nungarin from 1995 to 2007 56 Figure 51. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Nungarin 57 Figure 52. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Pingelly from 1995 to 2007 58

61/18881/68965 iv Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 53. Farms and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Pingelly 59 Figure 54. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Quairading from 1995 to 2007 60 Figure 55. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Quairading 61 Figure 56. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Tammin from 1995 to 2007 62 Figure 57. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Tammin 63 Figure 58. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Toodyay from 1995 to 2007 64 Figure 59. Residential Water Use in the Shire of Toodyay 65 Figure 60. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Trayning from 1995 to 2007 66 Figure 61. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Trayning 67 Figure 62. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Victoria Plains from 1995 to 2007 68 Figure 63. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Victoria Plains 69 Figure 64. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Westonia from 1995 to 2007 70 Figure 65. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Westonia 71 Figure 66. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wickepin from 1995 to 2007 72 Figure 67. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Wickepin 73 Figure 68. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wongan•Ballidu from 1995 to 2007 74 Figure 69. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Wongan•Ballidu 75 Figure 70. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wyalkatchem from 1995 to 2007 76 Figure 71. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Wyalkatchem 77 Figure 72. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Yilgarn from 1995 to 2007 79 Figure 73. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Yilgarn 80 Figure 74 Accommodation Services, Mining and Parks & Gardens Water use – Shire of Yilgarn 80 Figure 75. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of York from 1995 to 2007 81 Figure 76. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of York 82

Appendix A Summary of Shire Water Use

61/18881/68965 v Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Summary

GHD were engaged by the Avon Catchment Council to assess trends in water use at a Local Government level and to set water consumption targets within the Avon River basin.

Approximately 11.5 GL of water sourced from the Water Corporation Integrated Water Supply Scheme IWSS is consumed annually within the Avon River basin. Residential and Farm water use accounted for 42% and 38% of water demand respectively for the period of monitoring (1995 – 2007). Approximately 4.5% of water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS was used on Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation, and Services, Infrastructure and Amenities. Industrial, Commercial and Accommodation Services accounted for an additional 9.6% of water use within the region (Table 1).

Table 1 Proportion of Demand – Water use Categories 1995 • 2007

Water use Category Proportion of Total Accommodation Services 3.0% Commercial 2.5% Farms 38.1% Industrial 4.1% Mining 0.2% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 4.6% Residential 42.4% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 4.4% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 0.5% Transport Infrastructure 0.1%

There was a slight downward trend in the demand for Water Corporation scheme water within the Avon River basin for the period 1995 – 2007. Water use within the region fluctuated from 10.3 GL in 2002 to a maximum of 13.0 GL in 1998, with variations appearing to have reasonable coincidence with short term climatic variations (Figure 1). Trend analysis undertaken indicates a decline in the demand for water within the region of approximately 104 ML / annum, based on data for the recent record period, 1995 • 2007.

61/18881/68965 vi Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 1. Trend in Water Use

14

13 y = •0.1044x + 220.26 12

11

10

9 Annual Water Consumption Annual (GL) Water

8 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Farm Subregional analysis of agricultural water use within the Avon Arc Central, Eastern, Northern, and Southern subregions displayed clear trends in changing water demand within the region. Farm water use was variable throughout the monitoring period, however a declining trend was evident within all subregions with the exception of the southern subregion, where a moderate increase in demand for farm water supplies is evident, albeit developing from a relatively low base. Increasing demand in the Southern subregion was in response to the extensions to the water supply distribution network within that subregion.

Figure 2 Subregional • Farm Water Use Trends

1.8 Avon ARC Central Eastern Northern Southern

1.6

1.4

1.2

1

0.8 Water Use (GL) 0.6

0.4

0.2

0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 vii Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The decline in farm water demand is most significant within the eastern part of the Avon River basin, with a moderate decline experienced in the central and northern subregions, and a relatively stable demand for farm water evident within the Avon Arc. A decline in sheep numbers within the Avon River basin is the most likely reason for the reduction in demand for farm water. No figures are available for sheep numbers within the Avon River basin. However, national sheep numbers decreased during the period 1996 – 2003, prior to a period of stabilisation in the flock size (Australian Wool Innovation Limited, 2007; (Table 2).

Table 2. National Sheep Numbers (1997 – 2006).

Year 97/98 98/99 99/00 00/01 01/02 02/03 03/04 04/05 05/06

Sheep Numbers 120.1 117.4 115.4 118.5 110.8 106.1 99.2 101.2 101.1 (millions)

Farm water consumption may continue to decline as a result of lower demand for stock water on farms. However, economic factors such as increasing cost of inputs for cropping, more variable rainfall patterns and projected future increases in wool and meat prices may translate into increased sheep numbers throughout the region. This may in turn lead to upward pressure on water demand within the Avon River basin within the farm water use category.

Stabilisation in demand for farm water throughout the region appears to have occurred after 2000, most likely in response to lower winter rainfall occurring during the period 2000 – 2007, when compared to previous decades. It is possible that the projected drying climate predicted for the southwest of may also place upward pressure on demand for farm water supplies throughout the Avon River basin.

Residential There was a general decline in demand for residential supply throughout the Avon River basin for the period 1995 • 2006, however Shires located within the Avon Arc recorded an increase in demand for residential water supply (Figure 3). Trends in demand for residential water use appear to respond to changes in population within the region, with declining population in the eastern, central and northern areas of the region and an increasing trend in population within the Avon Arc.

61/18881/68965 viii Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 3 Subregional Residential Water Use

1.8 Avon ARC Central Eastern Northern Southern

1.6

1.4

1.2

1

0.8 Water Use (GL)Water 0.6

0.4

0.2

0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Annual fluctuations of water use for residential supply appear to respond to annual variations in rainfall. Low rainfall years of 1998, 2001 and 2002 generally correlate to higher residential water demand.

Subregions Table 3 summarises water use trends for subregional areas within the Avon River basin. The analysis indicates a declining trend of 104 ML / annum across all water use categories within the region. The most significant decline was experienced within the Eastern part of the region, with reductions across all categories of water use, resulting in a 64 ML/annum average decline over the period 1995 – 2007.

Table 3 Subregional Water Use Trends • Avon River basin

Water Use (ML) Residential Farm Other Total Avon ARC 12.9 •2.8 •13.8 •3.7 Central •9 •18.2 •2.7 •29.9 Eastern •12.5 •28.9 •22.7 •64.1 Northern •5.8 •13.9 •2.2 •21.9 Southern 0.06 12.5 2.7 15.26 Total •14.34 •51.3 •38.7 •104.3 Boundaries of subregional zones are illustrated in (Appendix A). Declines were also experienced within the Central and Northern subregions of the Avon River basin, with a decline of 29 ML/annum and 21 ML/annum in water use respectively. The Avon Arc experienced stable water use over the period 1995 – 2007. A moderate increase in residential water demand was offset by a decrease principally in industrial and commercial water use for the period 1995 – 2002, followed by a moderate increase in demand for industrial 61/18881/68965 ix Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting and commercial water use for the period 2003 • 2007. It is likely the Avon Arc will experience fluctuations in demand for industrial and commercial water use, driven by a range of economic factors influencing commercial and industrial development within the subregion. An overall increase in water demand within the Avon Arc over the coming period is likely. This will be driven by increasing demand for residential supplies, with increasing demand for commercial and industrial water use also possible. The Shires of Lake Grace, Kent and Kondinin (Southern subregion) experienced an increase in water consumption for the period 1995 – 2007. The increase in demand for water within the southern part of the Avon River basin was largely driven by an increase in the water distribution network.

Forecast In summary, water consumption has generally decreased in eastern and central parts of the Avon River basin and increased in the southern and western areas. In particular, there appears to be a decline in demand for water for agricultural purposes, with the exception of areas associated with increased distribution network within the southern part of the region. There is a general decline in residential water demand within the region, with the exception of the Avon Arc, where population growth is driving increased demand for residential water.

A summary of water use trends for farm and residential demand for individual Shires is presented in Appendix A. Investment by the Avon Catchment Council and the Australian Government through the Community Water Grant has resulted in a projected water saving of approximately 470 ML per year (4% of average annual use), at a cost of approximately $3 million in grants. However, funding for water infrastructure projects is likely to be significantly reduced over the coming period, leading to a stablisation in water demand throughout the Avon River basin. Moving forward, demand for water across the region will be influenced by the underlying increasing trend in residential water demand and fluctuations in commercial and industrial water demand within the Avon Arc. Farm water use within the region appears to be stabilising and will likely respond to climatic variations. The predicted drying climate within the region is likely to result in increasing demand for farm water supplies throughout the region.

It is considered further reductions in consumption within the region are unlikely, particularly without significant additional investment in the development of alternative water infrastructure. As a result no decrease in water use within the region is forecast for the short term, but the medium to long term may see gradually increasing demand for water throughout the region. This increasing demand is likely to be driven by a drying climate and increasing demand for agricultural water supplies, overshadowing a firm demand for residential and commercial water supplies within the Avon Arc.

61/18881/68965 x Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 1. Introduction

GHD were contracted by the Avon Catchment Council (ACC) to deliver the Water Management and Self Sufficiency Project IWM006, funded through the National Action Plan for Salinity and Water Quality via the Avon Catchment Council Investment Plan, 2005 • 2008. This project includes elements aimed at improving self sufficiency for water use within the Avon River basin (ARB) and reducing reliance on the Water Corporation Water Supply Scheme (IWSS) or “Scheme”. An analysis of the regional water demand within the Avon River basin has previously been completed, with particular emphasis on water delivered through the Water Corporation Scheme. The analysis included:

1. Analysing water consumption in the region; 2. Assessing alternative supplies, taking into account the cost of water; and 3. Analysis of potential salinity impacts on the Water Corporation pipe network within the Avon River basin. In addition to undertaking analysis of water use trends within the Avon River basin, the Avon Catchment Council required targets for potential reductions in scheme water use to be set for individual Local Government Authorities (LGAs) within the region, for inclusion into Local Area Plans. This paper draws together elements of the Water Management Self•Sufficiency project within the context of setting targets for reduced scheme water use within the Avon River basin. This report contains the following elements: 1. Summary of regional water use trends; 2. Identification of methods for assessing future trends in water use within the region; 3. Assessment of opportunities for investment in reduced reliance on the Water Corporation Scheme; and 4. Recommended targets for reductions in scheme water use within the Avon River basin.

1.1 Management Action Target The Management Action Targets relevant to this project component are:

W3 MAT 4.1 The volume of water use annually for farm and town supply from reticulated schemes is identified within 30 Local Area Plans and targets for reduced use are set by 2007; and

W3 MAT 8.1 Monitored reduction in scheme water use established by 2007.

61/18881/68965 1 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 2. Background

2.1 Water Corporation Supply Regions The Water Corporation of Western Australia supplies drinking quality water to areas of rural Western Australia including parts of the Avon River basin through its Integrated Water Supply Scheme (IWSS). The Water Corporation IWSS supplies water to 1.5 million of the 1.9 million people living in Western Australia. Water is sourced from multiple groundwater and surface water catchments.

Presented is an analysis of water use from the IWSS within the Avon River basin. The analysis includes an assessment of volumes of use at a Local Government Area (LGA) level.

2.2 Water Corporation Supply Sources Water distributed to the Avon River basin via the IWSS comes from a variety of sources. Mundaring Weir is the major source of supply to the Agricultural and Goldfields Regions. The to Kalgoorlie (Goldfields) pipeline forms the primary arterial stem from which other mains branch off to distribute water throughout the region. A range of other local sources are use to supply the IWSS. These include opportunistic supplies used to supplement the local area supply to reduce the reliance on the major sources. Local supplies are not necessarily connected to the “Mains” network, but are still operated by the Water Corporation. In some cases isolated communities, such as Lake King, are completely reliant on local water resources, as they are not serviced by the IWSS. The Water Corporation IWSS distribution network within the Avon River basin is presented in Figure 4. In addition to the Mains distribution network, strategic community water supply facilities exist throughout most of the dry land agricultural area. They include stand•alone strategic supplies that provide sources of emergency water to “water deficient” areas, as well as non•strategic Agricultural Area (AA) Dams within the catchment. These community water supplies cater for a broad spectrum of community water uses, from emergency drinking water for livestock to supplementary water supplies for rural towns. Revenue•earning water sources, including the IWSS, are operated and managed by the Water Corporation. Stand•alone community water supplies, including strategic supplies used by landholders during extreme drought conditions, are generally not revenue earning and are funded by Local Government or the Department of Water through the Rural Water Plan (RWP).

An objective of the RWP is to develop a more adequate and reliable network of off•farm strategic community water supplies. According to the objectives of the RWP (Department of Environment, 2005), community water supplies should have the following attributes:

» Be managed and maintained by the community;

» Be available to the community as an emergency water supply when the surrounding area is declared “water deficient”; and

» Be able to supply at least 20 adjacent farms.

61/18881/68965 2 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 2.3 Patterns of Use An assessment of the pattern of use within the Avon River basin was undertaken to ascertain the distribution of water use across a range of categories. These categories were developed to reflect the socio•economic framework of the region. Water Corporation has over 190 categories for describing connections within the Avon River basin. In undertaking the analysis, the 190 categories were amalgamated into 10 broad categories, considered to provide a more meaningful analysis of water use patterns within the region for this level of assessment. The analysis included the total number of connections and consumption volume in kilolitres for each of the adopted categories. The results of this analysis are presented in Table 4.

Table 4. Summary of Water Corporation Consumption by Category

Average Annual Category Consumption (kL) %

Residential 4,870,634 42.5

Farms 4,366,149 38.1

Parks & gardens 526,687 4.6

Services & amenities 508,536 4.4

Industrial 462,783 4.0

Accommodation Services 339,110 3.0

Commercial 291,160 2.5

Standpipes, Community Water Supplies 63,277 0.6

Mining 19,212 0.2

Transport Infrastructure 6,108 0.1

Total 11,453,656 100

Source: Water Corporation sales data

The total water use within the Avon River basin sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS is approximately 11.5 GL/year, almost one half of the estimated 27 GL delivered through the Perth to Kalgoorlie pipeline each year. Approximately 43% of the water delivered through the Water Corporation IWSS is used for Residential purposes, with an additional 9% used primarily by LGAs in providing Services and maintaining Infrastructure and Parks & Gardens. Water use for Industrial and Commercial purposes accounts for a further 7% of water use within the region. Standpipes and Community Water Supplies, Transport Infrastructure and the Mining industry account for approximately 1% of the total water use from the Water Corporation Scheme.

61/18881/68965 3 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The remaining 38% of water delivered through the Water Corporation IWSS is used on•farm. The breakdown of water use on•farm between domestic, crop spraying and/or reticulated stock consumption is not reported by the Water Corporation.

Figure 4 Water Corporation Supply and Distribution Network

61/18881/68965 4 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 3. Overview

There are benefits associated with reduced reliance on the Water Corporation IWSS in rural and regional areas within the Avon River basin. Foremost is the responsible management of a valuable resource. Reducing consumption from the Water Corporation Scheme supply may be viewed as a social responsibility to conserve water for drier years. The Avon Catchment Council Investment Plan requires the setting of targets for reductions in reticulated water consumption by 2007 (W3 MAT 4.1). It is considered the setting of targets for a reduction in scheme water use forms a vital component of a strategy for reducing reliance on IWSS supplies throughout the region. An assessment of the underlying trends in water use is presented in Sections 4 and 5 of this report, providing the basis for targets, or forecasts for water use within the region. There are also economic drivers for reduced consumption of water. The “real” cost associated with the supply of water to the Avon River basin via the Water Corporation IWSS is generally greater than the “actual” price charged to the consumer. If reliance on the Water Corporation IWSS can be reduced, there is potential economic saving for the Government of Western Australian. Development of alternative water supplies will reduce reliance on the Water Corporation IWSS, and reduce the impact of possible failure in the supply and distribution network. A failure resulting from deliberate or accidental damage to the IWSS pipeline network and associated infrastructure, or an extended dry period that necessitates a reduction in supply to regional locations, may have a devastating impact on rural communities.

Setting of targets for reduction in reliance on the Water Corporation IWSS requires an assessment of the economics of establishing alternative supplies. The level of adoption of alternative supplies will be in part influenced by the level of investment available to land managers, generally through Government funding programs such as the National Water Initiative (Community Water Grants) and Water Management and Self•Sufficiency project. Previously, the Community Water Grants program offered grants to help local community organisations to save, recycle or improve the health of their local water resources. There were three rounds of the Community Water Grants with a number of Local Government Authorities and community organisations within the Avon River basin successfully attracting funds to assist in implementation of water saving projects. The Farm Water Grants is an incentive program run by the Department of Water developed to provide assistance for planning and installing on•farm water supply systems and infrastructure. However these grants are not available to landholders currently connected to the Water Corporation IWSS, therefore will have little or no impact on targets for reduced scheme consumption in Local Government Authorities (LGAs). The Avon Catchment Council provided funding for on•ground works within the Avon River basin through the Water Management Self•Sufficiency project. The intention was to develop integrated plans with LGAs and landholders at a subcatchment level and to facilitate the implementation of these plans. However, due to unfavourable seasons coupled with economic

61/18881/68965 5 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting drivers associated with the relatively low cost of “scheme water”, implementation of onground works by landholders was less than initially anticipated within the project.

The relatively large volume of scheme water applied to parks and reserves managed by LGAs within the Avon River basin, presented opportunities for reduced reliance on Water Corporation scheme supplies. A number of towns expressed interest in improving self sufficiency in terms of scheme water use, applying to both Community Water Grants and The Water Management Self•Sufficiency Project for assistance in planning and implementation of town water reuse strategies.

Water saving projects associated with the Community Water Grants program and the Avon Catchment Council self sufficiency project have been considered in developing recommended targets for reduced water consumption within the region.

The following discussion considers potential reductions in water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS, focusing on the categories that consume the greatest amount of water in the Avon River basin.

3.1 Residential Approximately one third (4.97 GL/year) of all water use within the Avon River basin sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS is used for town residential water supplies. Of this, approximately 1.01 GL/year is used for residential purposes within the town of Northam. Average household use is considered to be approximately 350 • 400 kL/year, approximately half of which is use for in•house domestic purposes and the other half is use on gardens. Typically, the Water Corporation consider garden use to be discretionary, with the majority of water•wise campaigns directed at reducing garden water use.

Whilst grey water re•use and collection of roof runoff in rainwater tanks potentially offer a 50% reduction on in•house use, economic and technical issues limit the practical application of these water management options. The costs associated with collecting roof runoff and storage in rainwater tanks is approximately 5 times that associated with sourcing water from the Water Corporation IWSS, when considered over short timeframes. Residential water use within the Avon River basin has not been targeted for investment within the Avon Catchment Council Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Project IWM006, with trends in the residential water use throughout the Avon River basin driven by underlying trends in population distribution throughout the region.

3.2 Commercial and Industrial Approximately 7% of all water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS within the Avon River basin is used for commercial or industrial purposes. The relatively low cost of water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS is believed to present a significant barrier to the adoption of alternative water resources for the majority of commercial and industrial enterprises within the Avon River basin. Engaging commercial and industrial enterprises in developing alternative water sources to the Water Corporation IWSS is likely to be difficult and time•consuming.

61/18881/68965 6 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Commercial and industrial users have not previously been targeted by Regional, State or Commonwealth funding programs, principally due to a focus on community groups and not for• profit organisations.

3.3 Agricultural Approximately 38% of water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS within the Avon River basin is used on•farm, for either domestic or agricultural purposes. Planning activities undertaken within subcatchments have indicated a significant proportion of this water is used for in•house, garden and crop spraying. However, a large number of landholders throughout the region also use water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS for irrigation of stock. The current price of water charged to landholders within the region represents a financial barrier to the development of alternative water supplies to the Water Corporation IWSS. It is estimated the cost of developing alternative water supplies is in the order of two – three times the cost of accessing water from the Water Corporation IWSS. Landholders developing alternative water supplies were offered a 50% subsidy on total costs as a grant through the Avon Catchment Council Surface Water Management Self Sufficiency Project. The total water saving that can be achieved by focusing on reductions in water use on•farm is limited by the number of landholders that can be engaged within this project. Underlying trends in agricultural practices, including the distribution of stock within the Avon River basin, appear to be driving trends in agricultural water use.

3.4 Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation Approximately 4.6% of water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS within the Avon River basin is use on Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation. The rate of water application on public open space is largely governed by temperature and the amount of rainfall received. Climate change is expected to result in increased average temperatures and reduced rainfall. This change may mean an even greater volume of water will be required to irrigate town gardens in the future. A number of councils, such as Northam, Merredin and Quairading, employ wastewater and stormwater re•use programs to lessen their reliance on Water Corporation Scheme water. Stormwater re•use involves the collection of rainfall runoff either from the town itself, or from a specifically constructed catchment area. Wastewater re•use involves the recycling of grey water and sewage. Wastewater is treated and often mixed with stormwater or scheme water prior to use on council gardens. From conversations with LGAs, it is apparent a number have a structured plan for furthering their self•sufficiency. They identified funding as the primary barrier to further water infrastructure development. However some LGAs have been successful in gaining funding to invest in storm and wastewater infrastructure from the Avon Catchment Council and the Community Water Grants.

61/18881/68965 7 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 3.5 Services, Infrastructure and Amenities Approximately 4.4% of water sourced from the Water Corporation IWSS within the Avon River basin is use on Services, Infrastructure and Amenities. This category includes schools, hospitals, public toilets, emergency services and others. A number of organisations within LGAs have made successful applications to fund other water saving projects, such as the installation of waterless toilets or the addition of rainwater tanks to roofs.

61/18881/68965 8 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 4. Local Government Authority (LGA) Summary

Analysis was undertaken at a LGA level to determine consumption trends in order to provide an overview of water use patterns within the region. This information is important in identifying geographic trends and also for setting meaningful targets for reduced supply to local government. Water use is presented as a series of figures that illustrate the spatial patterns of water use across the Avon River basin and is based on the Water Corporation dataset from 1995 – 2007.

4.1 Total Water Use Figure 5 illustrates the total volume of water use by individual LGAs over the period 1995 • 2007. The greatest water users over this period were Shires with major rural centres such as Northam, York and Merredin. Large Shires such as Yilgarn also use a high volume of water during this period.

4.2 Mean Annual Water Use (1995 – 2007) Water use is presented as a function of area (ML/km2) for each Shire, providing a normalised water use comparison for the region. Figure 6 highlights Shires with significant regional centres and those adjacent to arterial trunks of the Water Corporation water supply distribution network, which exhibited the highest water use per unit area. This highlights the influence of residential water use on overall water use, explored in more detail in Section 4.3.

4.3 Residential Water Use The pattern of spatial distribution of residential water use in the Avon River basin is similar to that of total water use throughout the region, with residential water use accounting for 43% of total water use within the region. Figure 7 illustrates mean annual residential water use, expressed as a percentage of the mean annual total water use for each Shire.

Of interest is the low residential use within the Shire of Northam. The Shire of Northam contains the Town of Northam Shire, which accounts for Residential water consumption. The Northam Shire water use, which is high compared to surrounding Shires, is distributed equally through Farms, Industrial and Residential uses. Shires with low Residential water consumption are generally located to the far north and south of the Avon River basin. Their low Residential water consumption is likely to be due to a combination of factors. A lack of Residential landuse, or a low Shire population, will be the primary factor influencing low Residential water use. Low Residential water use may also be attributed to self sufficiency of Shires as a result of restricted access to the IWSS scheme.

4.4 Farm use Farm use comprises over half of total water use in many of the Shires to the north of the Avon River basin (Figure 8). Contrary to the pattern shown in residential water use, the Shires to the

61/18881/68965 9 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting west of the region use only a small proportion of their water for agricultural purposes compared with the other LGAs.

Higher rainfall in the western Shires generates a more reliable farm water source through capture in dams. Shires such as Northam, Toodyay, York, Beverley, Brookton and Pingelly all contain dam storage:area ratios of 4.5 ML/km2 or greater (GHD, 2008). These are the highest storage:area ratios in the Avon River baisn. The reliability of rainfall may influence the proportion of IWSS scheme water use for agriculture. Heavier reliance on IWSS scheme water, evident in the central and northern Shires, may be partially influenced by less reliable rainfall, but predominantly by the extensive water distribution network within these Shires. The onset of reduced rainfall through predicted climate change is likely to further decrease the reliability of farm dams, particularly in the central, northern and eastern Shires of the region, thereby potentially increasing demand on scheme water. Reducing reliance on scheme water for agricultural stock use typically requires the use of tanks, farm dams and/or development of low salinity groundwater supplies. The addition of an improved or roaded catchment to dams has been shown to significantly increase their reliability GHD (2008). However, high adoption rates of construction of improved catchments are considered unlikely, due to technical and financial constraints. The farm water use in the Morbinning subcatchment (Quairading Shire) was explored in greater detail to gain a better appreciation of water use for house, cropping and livestock. For an average mixed farming enterprise approximately 80% of overall water use on•farm was use for livestock supplies, 10 % for domestic use and 10 % for crop spraying.

61/18881/68965 10 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 5. Total Water Use by Local Government

61/18881/68965 11 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 6. Average Annual Water Use per Unit Area (ML/sq km).

61/18881/68965 12 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 7. Mean Annual Residential Water Use as Percentage of Mean Annual Water Use.

61/18881/68965 13 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 8. Mean Annual Farm Water Use as Percentage of Mean Annual Water Use

61/18881/68965 14 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5. Local Government Water Use

The Avon Catchment Council's Management Action Target W3 MAT 4.1 states: “The volume of water use annually for farm and town supply from reticulated schemes is identified within 30 Local Area Plans and targets for reduced use are set by 2007.” Water use for individual Shires in the Avon River basin is presented across a series of categories accorded by the Water Corporation. The most significant water use categories were further analysed to determine how water use varied over the recorded period. Trend analysis was undertaken for each Shire and presented as linear trends, summarising changes in water use over the period of record. Analysis of trends assist in establishing targets, or rather forecasts for future water use within the region. In some cases, the water use analysis of Shire categories was separated into two trends where obvious shifts in water use were evident. The reasons for these water use changes were explored and are discussed below. Water efficient practices adopted by individual Shires as a result of funding or grants have also been explored and reported to identify current and future water savings.

5.1 Shire of Beverley The Shire of Beverley is located approximately 140 km east of Perth, in the western central Wheatbelt. It has a population of 1,785 with 692 dwellings. The relatively high residential population explains the high residential water use within the Shire, accounting for 64% of total use (Figure 9). Farm water use represents the next largest water use category within the Shire, comprising 15% of total use (1995 – 2007). A further 16% of water use within the Shire is a combination of Commercial, Services & Amenities, and Parks & Gardens.

Figure 10 and Figure 11 illustrate the water use patterns for residential and farm water use categories respectively. Residential water use fluctuated significantly over the recorded period. The overall trend indicates an increase in residential water use by 0.1% / year over the recorded period (1995 – 2007). The volume of residential water use is likely to have been influenced by the extent and frequency of summer rainfall and an increase in the residential population from approximately 1,450 in 1995 to 1,560 in 2001 (Shire of Beverley website).

61/18881/68965 15 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 9. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Beverley from 1995 to 2007

2% 0% 2% 6% 4% Accommodation Services

15% Commercial

Farms

1% Industrial

6% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water 64% Supplies Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Water Use: 199 ML

Figure 10. Residential Water Use in the Shire of Beverley

155

150

145

140 y = 0.2029x + 124.87 135

130

125

120 0.1% / Annum 115 Annual ConsumptionAnnual (ML) 110 Residential 105

100 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Farm water use within the Shire of Beverley shows a decreasing trend (•1.9% / annum) from 1995 – 2002 followed by an increasing trend (4.2% / annum) from 2002 – 2007. Whilst annual variations will be influenced by rainfall and temperature, an increase in the number of small hobby farms within the Shire is also likely to affect farm water use.

61/18881/68965 16 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Shire of Beverley has a dam storage:area ratio of 5.72 ML/km2 , the second highest (LGA) within the Avon Arc. The apparent increase in farm water use after 2001 may reflect declining rainfall over that period, resulting in a use of Water Corporation scheme water to substitute less reliable dam supplies.

Figure 11. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Beverley

40

35 y = •0.61x + 32.24 y = 1.22x + 28.42

30

4.2% / Annum

25 • 1.9% / Annum Annual Consumption (ML) 20 Farms Farms

15 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

Landholders within the Beverley Shire participating in the Avon Catchment Council's Water Management Self•Sufficiency project, have implemented water saving projects including the establishment of rainwater tanks for capture of 200 kL/year of runoff from sheds. This represents approximately 0.6% of total annual farm water use.

61/18881/68965 17 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.2 Shire of Brookton The Shire of Brookton is located less than 100 km south•east of Perth. It has a population of approximately 1060. Water for Residential purposes comprises 54% of scheme water use within the Shire. Parks & Gardens account for 18%, and Farms 14% of total water use (Figure 12). Industrial and Services & Amenities make up 8% of total water use. Scheme water use on Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation is the second highest in the Avon River basin and is attributed to 20 ha of Parks & Gardens, which are irrigated by scheme water.

A Community Water Grant attained through the National Water Initiative funded a water re• use project for the townsite of Brookton. This will involve the construction of a 5 ML collection dam. Captured runoff will be pumped to a 50 ML holding dam, where water will be stored for use for irrigation of public open space in the town. The Brookton Shire is also undertaking works to integrate wastewater reuse from the town’s sewerage dam which receives an estimated 46 ML of treated water per year. The plans include mixing of treated waste water with collected stormwater to irrigate the town oval and school grounds. It is estimated that completion of the project will result in a saving of approximately 100 ML/annum for the Shire. An average of 30 ML/year is currently used on Parks & Gardens. It is not clear what the additional 70 ML/yr will be use for, although the Brookton Shire is considering a range of opportunities. In addition to the water re•use projects, a Community Water Grant secured by the Shire of Brookton to replace grass greens with synthetic turf, capture runoff from the green and use it to wash the synthetic greens will save 4.8 ML of water per year within the Services, Infrastructure and Amenities water use category, representing a 42% reduction.

Figure 12. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Brookton from 1995 to 2007

Accommodation Services

1%1%1% 3% 5% Commercial 14% Farms

3% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

Residential 18%

Services, Infrastructure & 54% Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Consumption: 165 ML

61/18881/68965 18 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Farm water use decreased 2.6% / annum during the period 1994 • 2002, however increased 3.7% / annum from 2002 (Figure 13), similar to the pattern of farm water use in the Shire of Beverley. It is likely the increased demand on Water Corporation scheme water agricultural water supplies is in response to reduced rainfall over the period 2000 • 2007 resulting from substitution of scheme water for less reliable dam water supplies. Residential water use fluctuated over the recorded period with no trend evident. However, it is expected that an increase in rural•residential and residential developments within the town of Brookton will occur, leading to an increase in the mean annual residential water use within the Shire.

Figure 13. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Brookton.

120

100

80 Farms y = •0.0916x + 89.36 Farms 0% / Annum 60 Residential 3.7% / Annum y = •0.6375 x+ 24.38 y = 0.806x + 21.876 40 •2.6% / Annum Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual

20

0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

61/18881/68965 19 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.3 Shire of Bruce Rock The Shire of Bruce Rock is located 254 km east of Perth, in the heart of the Wheatbelt. It has a town population of approximately 700. The primary use of water within the Shire is by Farms (61%), whilst Residential water use comprised 27% of the total use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 14). Parks & Gardens and Services & Amenities accounted for 8% of total water use over the recorded period.

Figure 14. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Bruce Rock 1995 to 2007.

0% 4% 1% 2%

Accommodation Services

Commercial 27% Farms

Industrial

Mining

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 4% 61% Residential

0% Services, Infrastructure & 1% Amenities Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Consumption: 365 ML

Analysis of Farm water use within the Shire indicates a decreasing trend of 2.25% / annum, whilst Residential water use is relatively stable over the recorded period, declining by 0.7% / annum (Figure 15).

A Bruce Rock Shire landholder accessed funding through the Avon Catchment Council Water Grants to install rainwater tanks and a groundwater bore, saving 650 kL/year. This represents a 0.3% saving in mean annual farm water use within the Shire.

Through the Australian Government’s Community Water Grants, the Shire of Bruce Rock will improve water efficiency by repairing a water catchment and using storm water to irrigate the town's public gardens and oval, saving 3.4 ML/year. This represents a 23% savings in mean annual water use within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 20 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Community Water Grants will also fund a rainwater reuse project to be used for irrigation purposes by the local school, saving a total of 1.4 ML per year. This represents a 9.5% saving in mean annual water use within the Services, Amenities & Infrastructure water use category.

Figure 15. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Bruce Rock

300 280 Farms 260 Residential 240 •2.25% / Annum y = •5.8469x + 260.82 220 200 180 160 140

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual y = •0.4779x + 102.94 120 •0.7% / Annum 100 80 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 21 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.4 Shire of Corrigin The Shire of Corrigin is located approximately 235 km south•east of Perth. It has a population of approximately 1,200, with cereal cropping and sheep the main farming activities. Water was used primarily in Residential (53%) and Farm (29%) activities over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 16). On average, 9% of total water use was for Parks & Gardens (1995 – 2007). Both Farm and Residential water use have steadily declined since 1995 at rates of 1.6% and 1.3% respectively (Figure 17). This may be due to declining sheep numbers within the Farm water use category. A new residential development named Granite Rise Estate Corrigin will consist of about 33 lots ranging from 800 – 1776 m2. Each lot will be serviced by reticulated scheme water which may increase the residential water use when populated.

Figure 16. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Corrigin from 1995 to 2007.

Accommodation Services 5% 2% 2% 3%

Commercial

Farms

29% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

53% Services, Infrastructure & 2% Amenities

4% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 213 ML

61/18881/68965 22 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 17. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Corrigin

160

140 •1.3% / Annum y = •1.6197x + 124.92 120

100

80 y = •1.1624x + 70.907

Consumption (ML) Consumption 60 Farms •1.6% / Annum 40 Residential

20 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 23 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.5 Shire of Cunderdin The Shire of Cunderdin is located 158 km east of Perth, on . It has a town population of 850 and a Shire population of 1490 and includes the towns of Cunderdin and Meckering. Farms use the largest amount of water (48%) within the Shire, followed by Residential, which use an average of 35% of the total water for the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 18). Water use for Parks & Gardens accounted for approximately 10% of the total Shire water use for the period 1995 – 2007.

Figure 18. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Cunderdin from 1995 to 2007

0% 0% 3% 1% 2% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms 35% Industrial

48% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water 10% 1% Supplies Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Consumption: 430 ML

Figure 19 shows demand for farm water use has declined at a rate of 0.8% / annum since 1995. However, there appears to be a levelling off of the decline in demand after 2000. It is likely a decline in sheep numbers is responsible for this underlying trend, with significant seasonal variations evident during the monitoring period. The levelling off or slight increase in demand for farm water for the period after 2001 may reflect consistent low rainfall experienced for the period 2001 – 2007.

The predominance of sandy soils within the Shire may have implications for the reliability of farm dams. Future demand for farm water use may increase with the predicted drying of the climate associated with climate change.

Residential water use has remained steady (0.1% / annum increase) for the period since 1995. The Shire of Cunderdin includes the town sites of Cunderdin and Meckering. Development of rural•residential lots around both town sites may increase Residential water use within the Shire.

61/18881/68965 24 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 19. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Cunderdin

260

•0.8% / Annum 240 y = •1.7477x + 221.1 220

200

180 0.1% / Annum

160

Annual Consumption (ML)AnnualConsumption 140 Farms y = 0.1693x + 147.76 Residential 120

100 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 25 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.6 Shire of Dalwallinu The Shire of Dalwallinu is located 254 km north•east of Perth on the . It has a population of 823 (2006) and includes the townships of Dalwallinu, Pithara, Kalannie, Wubin and Buntine. A predominantly wheat farming region, agriculture accounted for 42% of the total water use (1995 – 2007) within the Shire. Residential demand accounted for a further 38% of Shire water use (Figure 20). An average of 11% of total water use was on Parks & Gardens and Services & Amenities for the period 1995 – 2007.

Farm and Residential water use fluctuated over the recorded period, with fluctuations in demand for farm water as much as 30%. Years of low farm water demand appeared to have some coincidence with either significant summer rainfall events or following years containing large rainfall events. This may indicate substitution of supply is important within the Shire, with demand for farm water influenced by reliability of agricultural dams. Sandy soils common throughout the Shire may influence farm dam reliability, particularly in years with limited large rainfall events. No underlying trend in demand for farm water was apparent over the monitoring period. The trends indicate a decline in demand for residential water by 0.7% / annum over the monitoring period. The Shire of Dalwallinu gained Community Water Grants funding to convert existing irrigation of the town’s playing fields to sub•surface irrigation. The Shire estimates a water saving of approximately 9.6 ML/year. The Kalannie Bowling Club will also save 1.2 ML of water per year through the installation of synthetic turf. These water efficient practices will represent a 73% saving of water use on Parks & Gardens for the Shire.

Figure 20. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Dalwallinu from 1995 to 2007

3% 1%0% 6% 3% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

Industrial

38% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 42% Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 5% 2% Transport Infrastructure

Mean Annual Consumption: 296 ML

61/18881/68965 26 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 21. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Dalwallinu

150

y = •0.0705x + 125.23 140

•0.05% / Annum 130

120

110 •0.7% / Annum y = •0.7848x + 118.51 100

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual Farms Residential 90

80 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 27 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.7 Shire of Dowerin The Shire of Dowerin is located 156 km north east of Perth within the central Wheatbelt. It has a population of approximately 782. Agricultural activities accounted for 70% of total water use for the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 22). Residential is the next largest water use category, comprising 20% of total water use (1995 – 2007). Both Farm and Residential water use display a steady decline in demand since 1995. Trends indicate a decrease in annual water consumption of 0.9% and 1.5% / annum for Farm and Residential categories respectively (Figure 23). Moderate fluctuations for the demand of Farm water (16%) are evident within the Shire, with demand for Residential water supplies appearing to be relatively consistent over the monitoring period, 1995 • 2007.

Figure 22. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Dowerin from 1995 to 2007

0% 2% 1% 3% Accommodation Services

20% Commercial

Farms

Industrial 3%

1% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

Residential

70% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 374 ML

A landholder in the Dowerin Shire received Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater tanks and an upgrade to an existing groundwater bore, which represented a water saving of 500 kL/year. Based on the mean annual consumption by Farms, this represents a 0.2% saving within the Farms water use category.

The Shire of Dowerin received a Community Water Grant to store stormwater from the town catchment in a collection dam which is linked to a storage dam and use to irrigate the school oval, public sporting areas, open spaces and public gardens, generating a saving of 6 ML/year. With a mean average annual water use of 11.2 ML within the Parks & Gardens water use category, this represents a 54% saving.

61/18881/68965 28 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Dowerin District Senior High School will improve water efficiency by installing a range of water saving devices and a rainwater tank to save 400 kL/year of water. This represents a 7.5% water saving within the Services & Amenities water use category.

Figure 23. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Dowerin

350

300 •0.8% / Annum

250

y = •2.3197x + 278.42 200 Farms Residential 150

•1.4% / Annum y = •1.1768x + 83.968 100 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 50

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 29 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.8 Shire of Goomalling

The Shire of Goomalling is located 132 km north east of Perth in the central Wheatbelt. It has a population of approximately 935. Farm and Residential water use comprised 53% and 33% respectively of the total water use within the Shire over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 24). Approximately 9% of the total water use within the Shire was used on Parks & Gardens and Services & Amenities.

Figure 24. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Goomalling from 1995 to 2007

1% 4% 1% 2% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms 33% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 53% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 5% Stand Pipes, Community 1% Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 268 ML

Both Farm and Residential water use have fluctuated over the period of record, however both categories display a significant decrease in demand. Farm water demand declined by 1.1% / annum, whilst Residential use declined by 1.7% / annum for the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 25). A landholder in the Shire of Goomalling received Avon Catchment Council funding to install a groundwater bore with an annual extraction capability of 1.2 ML/year. This represents a 0.8% saving of the mean annual Farm water use category. Funds from the Community Water Grants will be used by Shire of Goomalling to reuse stormwater to irrigate community sporting ovals. This is expected to save 4 ML/year of water. The Goomalling Farmers Club Inc. will replace an existing grass green with a synthetic bowling green, saving 2.8 ML/year. This represents a 51% saving of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 30 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Goomalling Fire Brigade will save 0.02 ML of water per year through the installation of a rainwater tank. This will represent a small 0.2% saving of water within the Services & Amenities water use category.

Figure 25. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Goomalling

170

160 y = •1.5814x + 147.28 150 •1.1% / Annum 140

130 Farms 120 Residential 110

100 •1.7% / Annum 90 Annual Consumption (ML)

80

70 y = •1.627x + 95.224 60 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 31 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.9 Shire of Kellerberrin The Shire of Kellerberrin is located 204 km east of Perth. It has a Shire population of 1,182 including a town population of 868. Farms and residential water use accounted for 51% and 36% respectively of total water use in the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 26). Smaller water use categories within the Shire include Parks & Gardens and Services & Amenities, which comprised a combined 8% of the total water use for the period 1995 – 2007. Farm water use in particular has declined significantly since 1995 at a rate of 3.05% / annum (Figure 27). This may be due to a reported decrease in sheep numbers within the region, reducing stock water use. Residential water use trends indicate a 0.8% / annum decrease in water use; however Figure 27 indicates a stabilisation in residential water consumption. Residential water consumption may continue to increase as a result of a rural•residential development within the Kellerberrin town site.

Figure 26. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kellerberrin from 1995 to 2007

4% 0%3% 2% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms 36% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 51% Recreation

Residential

4% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 0% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Consumption: 407 ML

61/18881/68965 32 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 27. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kellerberrin

280

260

240 y = •8.0022x + 262.29 220 •3.05% / Annum 200 Farms Residential 180

160

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 140 •0.8% / Annum 120 y = •1.2726x + 153.66 100 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

The Woolundra catchment, located within the Shire of Kellerberrin, was a priority subcatchment within the Avon Catchment Council Water Management Self•Sufficiency project. Achieving complete self•sufficiency for on•farm water supplies, particularly for landholders connected to the Water Corporation Scheme Supply, is often logistically difficult and cost prohibitive. The aim of investment in priority subcatchments was to increase self• sufficiency of farm water supplies and reduce reliance on the Water Corporation Scheme supplies. Implementation of identified projects within the Woolundra catchment is estimated to achieve water savings of 6 ML/yr. The Wallatin•O’Brien catchment in the Kellerberrin Shire is part of the Catchment Demonstration Initiative (CDI), which is a project aimed at showcasing catchment•level implementation of actions to tackle salinity. As part of this CDI project, groundwater pumping will be undertaken on individual properties that will produce 4 ML/yr of groundwater suitable for agricultural use. Two landholders in the Kellerberrin Shire have also accessed Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater and an upgraded reticulation system to an existing dam to save a further 1.3 ML/year.

These combined water savings within the Farms water use category represent an 11.5% (0.7% annual farm water use) saving of water, based on the mean annual average of Farms water use (1995 – 2007). The Shire of Kellerberrin has received funding through Community Water Grants Scheme to upgrade the irrigation system and expand a dam to enable greater use of recycled water

61/18881/68965 33 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting for irrigation of the football oval. This will achieve a 6.2 ML/year water saving, representing a 63% of water use on Parks & Gardens.

5.10 Shire of Kent The Shire of Kent is located 320 km south east of Perth. It has a population of 634 and includes the townships of Nyabing and Pingrup, which have populations of approximately 120 and 80 respectively. Farm and Residential water use categories comprise the majority of water use within the Shire, consuming 55% and 21% respectively of total water use within the Shire from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 28). Standpipes, Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens account for a further 20% of total water use.

Figure 28. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kent from 1995 to 2007

9% 1% 3% Accommodation Services 7% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

21% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 55% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 4% Stand Pipes, Community Water 0% Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 44 ML

Only a small proportion of the Shire is contained within the Avon River basin, resulting in a distorted relatively low figure of 44 ML annual use.

Farm water use over the recorded period has increased from approximately 5 ML/annum to 35 ML/annum over the period 1995 – 2007. Residential water use has remained steady over the same period.

The Shire of Kent has received funding from the Community Water Grants to capture, save and recycle stormwater to irrigate the Pingrup Sports ground. This will result in an estimated annual water saving of 22.8 ML.

61/18881/68965 34 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 29. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kent.

45 y = 2.8402x + 4.4755 40

35 Residential Farms 30 63.5% / Annum 25

20

15 •0.01% / Annum y = •0.0011x + 9.4935 Annual Consumption (ML)Annual Consumption 10

5

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 35 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.11 Shire of Kondinin The Shire of Kondinin is located 272 km from Perth. It has a population of 967 and includes the townsites of Kondinin, Kalgarin and Hyden. Farms and Residential accounted for 38% and 35% respectively of total water use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 30). Services & Amenities, Parks & Gardens and Commercial water use accounted for a combined 21% of total water use within the Shire.

Figure 30. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kondinin from 1995 to 2007

0%

2% 3% Accommodation Services 10% 5% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 38% 35% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 6% 1% Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Consumption: 203 ML

Fluctuations in water demand for both Farm and Residential water were evident for the period 1995 • 2007. There was an increase in demand (3% / annum) recorded for Farm water, but no trend in Residential water demand for the recorded period.

Annual variations in water use appeared to respond to rainfall, with low rainfall in 1997 and 2002 correlating to high water use, whilst high summer rainfall in 2000 correlated to a sharp decrease in water consumption for that year. Fluctuations in annual Farm water demand may reflect reliability of farm dams within the Shire. A landholder within the Kondinin Shire received Avon Catchment Council funding to construct a farm dam, estimated to yield 3 ML/year. This represents a 4% saving in water within the Farms water use category. The Kondinin Primary School received funding from the Community Water Grants to harvest rainwater for flushing toilets and irrigation and to upgrade to the irrigation system, which will save 1 ML/year. This represents a 5% saving in water within the Services & Amenities water use category.

61/18881/68965 36 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 31. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kondinin

110

100 Farms 3% / Annum Residential 90 y = 1.9013x + 63.752

80

70 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual y = •0.0417x + 70.989 60 •0.05% / Annum

50 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 37 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.12 Shire of Koorda The Shire of Koorda is located 238 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 596 and includes the townships and localities of Koorda, Kulja, Dukin, Mollerin and Badgerin. Farm and Residential water demand comprises the majority of water use, accounting for 64% and 25% respectively of total water use over the period 1995 – 2000 (Figure 32). Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens account for 7% of total water use within the Shire.

Figure 32. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Koorda from 1995 to 2007

1% 3% 2%

Accommodation Services

25% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 4% Recreation 1% Residential 64% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Mean Annual Consumption: 230 ML

Farm and Residential water use over the recorded period have shown a decrease of 2.2% and 1.5% / annum respectively (Figure 33). Rainfall appears to be the major reason for variations in water consumption for both categories. A landholder in the Koorda Shire accessed Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater tanks for a saving of 70 kL/year. This represents a 0.05% saving of water per year within the Farms water use category. The Shire of Koorda achieved Community Water Grant funding to extend an existing dam for irrigation of the recreation grounds, saving an estimated 2.7 ML / annum. This represents a 29% saving of water per year within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 38 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 33. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Koorda.

190 Farms 170 Residential

150 •2.2% / Annum 130

y = •3.9839x + 176.22 110

•1.5% / Annum 90

Annual Consumption (ML)Annual Consumption 70 y = •0.9824x + 63.741

50

30 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 39 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.13 Shire of Kulin The Shire of Kulin is located 300 km east of Perth. It has a population of 842 and includes the towns and localities of Kulin, Pingaring, Dudinin, Jitarning and Holt Rock. The water use categories of Farms and Residential comprise the majority of water use, accounting for 56% and 29% respectively of total water use for the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 34). The remaining categories comprise the final 15% of total water use within the Shire.

Figure 34. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Kulin from 1995 to 2007

2% Accommodation Services 3% 3% 2% Commercial

Farms

29% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

56% Residential

4% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 1%

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Average Consumption: 199 ML

Farm water use trends indicate an increase in water use of 1.7% / annum over the recorded period, whilst Residential water use remained relatively steady (•0.2% / annum) (Figure 35). The increasing demand for Farm water appears to have coincided with generally lower rainfall years during the period 2000 – 2007, potentially indicating impacts on dam reliability resulting from lower rainfall years. The Shire of Kulin secured Community Water Grants funding to recycle sewage and wastewater and store in existing holding ponds which will then be usde to irrigate street trees, playing fields and public gardens, saving an estimated 12 ML /annum. This accounts for 100% of the reported water use for Parks & Gardens (of 7.6 ML) within the Kulin Shire for the period of record, 1995 • 2007.

61/18881/68965 40 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 35. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Kulin 160

y = 1.8317x + 109.66 Farms 140 Residential 1.7% / Annum

120

100

80 •0.2% / Annum y = •0.1339x + 62.774 Annual Consumption (ML)Annual Consumption

60

40 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 41 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.14 Shire of Lake Grace The Shire of Lake Grace, one of the largest Shires within the Avon River basin, is located 354 km south east of Perth. It has a population of 1,456, housed within 791 dwellings and includes the towns of Lake Grace, Newdegate, Lake King, Varley and Pingaring. Residential use accounts for the majority of water used within the Shire, accounting for 51% of the total water use from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 36). Agriculture accounted for 27% of total water use, and Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens accounted for 13% for the period 1995 – 2007.

The relatively low farm water use compared to residential water use is due to the somewhat limited extent of the IWSS scheme water distribution network within the Shire of Lake Grace.

Figure 36. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Lake Grace from 1995 to 2007

0% 0% 4% Accommodation Services 8% 3% Commercial

Farms

27% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

Residential

51% 2% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 5% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Transport Infrastructure Mean Average Consumption: 235 ML

Farm water use has increased from 30 to 90 ML/annum for the period of record. The increase in farm water demand is attributed to an increase in the extent of the IWSS reticulation network within the Lake Grace Shire. Residential water use has remained relatively steady over the recorded period, displaying a slight increasing water use trend of 0.7% / annum. Implementation of a Community Water Grant will enable the Shire of Lake Grace to reuse stormwater and treated effluent for irrigation. Two storage tanks will be installed to increase water storage capacity and enable greater use of recycled water at the sporting facilities, saving an estimated 46 ML/year. The Lake Grace Sportsman's Club will also replace the greens with synthetic turf, saving 1.25 ML/year. 61/18881/68965 42 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Newdegate Primary School will save an estimated 0.6 ML of water per year by harvesting rainwater and stormwater for irrigation purposes. These water saving initiatives will represent a 100% saving of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

Figure 37. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Lake Grace

160

y = 0.827x + 113.42 140

0.7% / Annum 120

100

80

60 28.3% / Annum y = 6.1091x + 21.57 40 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual Farms 20 Residential

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 43 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.15 Shire of Merredin The Shire of Merredin is a large rural centre 334 km east of Perth, servicing a hinterland of over 15,000 people. It includes the towns of Merredin, Burracoppin, Muntadgin and Hines Hill. The town of Merredin acts as a regional base and is the major commercial and retail centre for the eastern Wheatbelt.

Residential use comprised 52% of total water use for the period 1995 – 2007, whilst agriculture accounted for 29% over the same period (Figure 38). The high proportion of Residential water use can be attributed to the population of 3,629 within the Merredin townsite. Services & Amenities, Parks & Gardens and Commercial water use categories account for an additional 16% of total water use for the period.

Figure 38. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Merredin from 1995 to 2006

0% 0% 5% 3% 4% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

29% Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential 52% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 4% Stand Pipes, Community Water 3% Supplies Transport Infrastructure

Mean Annual Consumption: 833 ML

Residential and Farms water use have shown a declining trend of 0.6% and 1.2% / annum respectively over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 39). The decreasing trend in residential water use may be a result of population drift from the Wheatbelt town to the coast based on lifestyle preferences (Newman, 2005). Declining farm water use is likely to be associated with declining sheep numbers within the Shire, overshadowing a slight increase in demand after 2000, caused by a series of lower rainfall years. The Shire of Merredin gained Community Water Grants funding to combine a hockey and football oval and replace two grass bowling greens with synthetic greens at Merredin Regional Community Leisure Centre. Runoff irrigation water from the oval and greens will be collected and re•used for irrigation. This is expected to save 27.7 ML/year, representing a 100% saving within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 44 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 39. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Merredin

550

500 •0.6% / Annum y = •3.0516x + 458.16 450

400 Farms Residential 350

300 •1.2% / Annum Annual Consumption (ML) y = •3.2013x + 267.23 250

200 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 45 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.16 Shire of Mount Marshall The Shire of Mount Marshall is located approximately 320 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 613. The Shire includes the towns of Beacon and Bencubbin. Farms account for the majority of water used within the Shire, comprising 69% of total water use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 40). Residential and Parks & Gardens accounted for 26% of total water use for the period 1995 – 2007. The low Residential water use within the Shire can be attributed to the low combined population of <300 within the two townsites.

Figure 40. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Mount Marshall from 1995 to 2007

0% 3% 0% 2% Accommodation Services 17% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

9% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 0% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 69% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 224 ML

Farm and Residential water use within the Shire have displayed a slight decreasing trend of 0.6% and 1% respectively over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 41). Variations in water use within these categories appear to be related to rainfall.

Two landholders in the Mount Marshall Shire accessed funding through the Avon Catchment Council (Water Management Self•Sufficiency Project) to install rainwater tanks and a surface water dam estimated to save 80 kL/year and 480 kL/year respectively. These projects represent a 0.4% saving for the Farm water use category. A number of projects have received Community Water Grants to reduce water use in the Parks & Gardens category. The Beacon Country Club will install of a range of water saving devices including a tank, which will be installed to collect rainwater together with treated sewage, which will be use for irrigation, saving approximately 800 kL/year.

61/18881/68965 46 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Shire of Mount Marshall will collect runoff from the Railway Dam in Bencubbin both for irrigation and to provide water for the regional aquatic centre. A shade structure for the town pool will also be constructed. These initiatives are estimated to save 14.7 ML/year.

The Bencubbin Community Recreation Council received a Community Water Grant to recycle greywater and blackwater for irrigation through the installation of a sewage treatment system saving 950 kL/year. The combined water savings in the Parks & Gardens water use category will reduce the reliance on IWSS scheme water within this category by 82% based on mean annual water use over the recorded period. A Community Water Grant also funded the Bencubbin Primary School to install a sewage treatment system to provide recycled water for irrigation, saving an estimated 780 kL of water a year. This represents a 12% saving of water in the Services & Amenities water use category.

Figure 41. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Mount Marshall

200 •0.6%/ Annum 180 y = •0.9215x + 160.1 160

140

120 Farms 100 Residential

80 •1% / Annum 60

Annual Consumption (ML) y = •0.4298x + 41.406 40

20

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 47 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.17 Shire of Mukinbudin The Shire of Mukinbudin is located 296 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 800.

Farms account for the majority of water used within the Shire, comprising 55% of total used within the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 42). Residential water use accounts for 28%, whilst Services & Amenities, Parks & Gardens, and Commercial categories account for 15% of total water use within the Shire.

Figure 42. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Mukinbudin from 1995 to 2007

0% Accommodation Services 4% 1% 4% Commercial

Farms

28% Industrial

Mining

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

55% Residential

7% Services, Infrastructure & 0% Amenities 1% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Consumption: 222 ML

Farm water use has remained constant over the recorded period, 1995 – 2007 (Figure 43). Residential water use has declined steadily since 1995 at a rate of 2.1% / annum. This decline is probably associated with a decline in population.

Co•operative Bulk Handling Ltd (CBH) agreed to construct a dam to capture surface water runoff as part of their expansion of the receival facility at Mukinbudin. The Shire received funding from the Avon Catchment Council to access water from the CBH dam for integration with the existing irrigation storage and distribution system. This will involve pumping water from the CBH dam to an existing town storage dam, which supplies water to the town. A 10 ML/year water saving is anticipated from implementation of this project.

The Shire of Mukinbudin was also successful in achieving Community Water Grant funding to reuse greywater and rainwater for irrigation and will install artificial turf on the bowling green and tennis courts at Mukinbudin Sports Ground. This project will save approximately 36 ML /annum, reducing reliance of scheme water for irrigation of Parks & Gardens to zero. An estimated water surplus of 30 ML/year will be available for use elsewhere. The Shire will also use Community Water Grant funds to install tanks to harvest rainwater and install water saving devices at the Men’s Shed. This will save an estimated 182 kL

61/18881/68965 48 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting /annum, representing an 8% saving of water within the Services & Amenities water use category.

Figure 43. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Mukinbudin

140.0

130.0

120.0

110.0 •0.09.% / Annum y = •0.1048x + 122.33 100.0 Farms 90.0 Residential

80.0 •2.1% / Annum

70.0 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual y = •1.5416x + 73.324 60.0

50.0

40.0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 49 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.18 Shire of Narembeen The Shire of Narembeen is located 286 km east of Perth. It has a population of 906.

Farms accounted for 50% , whilst Residential water use accounted for an additional 35% of total water use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 44). Services & Amenities, Parks & Gardens, and Commercial water use categories account for 12% of the total water use within the Shire (1995 – 2007).

Figure 44. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Narembeen from 1995 to 2007

6% 1% 0% 3% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

Industrial

35% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 50% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

3% 2%

Mean Annual Consumption: 211 ML

Both Farm and Residential water use categories display a falling trend from 1995 – 2002, before displaying an increasing trend from 2002 – 2007 (Figure 45). A new development, Cheetham Way subdivision, may in part explain an increase in residential water use within the Shire; however climatic fluctuations are likely to be the major influence. New housing within this development may further increase residential water consumption within the Shire in the future. Fluctuations within the Farm water use category are probably a reflection of variations in rainfall over the recorded period, indicating strong substitution of scheme water for farm dams within the Shire during low rainfall periods. The Shire of Narembeen was successful in achieving a Community Water Grant to install a chlorination system in their water supply, which will save an estimated 20 ML of water per year. This represents a 27% saving of water within the Residential water use category.

61/18881/68965 50 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 45. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Narembeen

140.0

y = •3.54x + 117.1 3.86% / Annum 120.0 y = 3.53x + 91.0 •3.02% / Annum 100.0

80.0

y = •1.436x + 81.59 y = 4.45x + 55.5 60.0 8.1% / Annum •1.7% / Annum Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 40.0 Residential Farms 20.0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

61/18881/68965 51 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.19 Shire of Northam The Shire of Northam is located 96 km east of Perth. It has a population of 10,600.

The town of Northam is the regional centre of the Avon Valley and Central Wheatbelt. Northam is also the main service centre for surrounding towns and communities and includes large areas of land for commercial and industrial purposes.

The Shire of Northam is the largest consumer of water from the Water Corporation IWSS in the Avon River basin, averaging 969 ML /annum for the recorded period, 1995 – 2007. Water use is evenly split over Residential, Industrial and Farms categories, accounting for 36%, 31% and 27% respectively of total water use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 46). Services & Amenities, Parks & Gardens, and Commercial water use accounted for the remaining 6% of water use within the Shire.

Note that residential water demand for the town of Northam is reported separately in this report.

Figure 46. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Northam from 1995 to 2007

2% 2%

Commercial 27%

Farms 36%

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

2% 31%

Mean Annual Consumption: 969 ML

61/18881/68965 52 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Trends in Residential water use indicate an increase in demand of 1.6% / annum. This increase in water use can be attributed to the increasing population. Rural•residential landuse is increasing within the Shire, supported by an increasing demand for lifestyle blocks and small hobby farms. Industrial water use has been in decline from 1995•2002; however it has increased since 2002, as illustrated in Figure 47.

Farm water use has decreased slightly since 1995 at a rate of •1.2% / annum, displaying seasonal fluctuations influenced by variations in rainfall.

Figure 47. Residential, Industrial and Farm Water Use in the Shire of Northam

500

450 y = 4.94x +311.8 1.6% / Annum 400

350 35.2% / Annum y = 34.97x • 101.7 300

250

•7.5% / Annum •1.2% / Annum Annual Consumption (ML) 200 y = •3.47x + 288.5 Residential y = •37.82x + 505.4

150 Farms Industrial 100 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

61/18881/68965 53 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.20 Town of Northam Residential water use accounts for 79% of total water use for the town of Northam for the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 48). Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens accounted for a further 11%.

Figure 48. Total Water Consumption in the Town of Northam from 1995 to 2007

1% 0% 3% 7% 2% 4% 0% Accommodation Services 4% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

Mining

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

79% Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Consumption: 1120 ML

Residential water demand within the Town of Northam has decreased since 1995 at a rate of 0.5% / annum (Figure 49). There is also significant annual fluctuation within this water use category. Residential water demand is closely linked to climatic factors, particularly rainfall. Low rainfall years of 1998 and 2001 both relate to high water consumption. It is likely residents within the town use more water during periods of low rainfall and high temperature for watering gardens.

The Northam Senior High School will save an estimated 0.32 ML / annum through the implementation of a Community Water Grant project to install water efficient taps, dual flush toilets, urinals, flow control valves and an automatic meter monitoring system. This represents a 0.4% saving of water within the Services & Amenities water use category for the town of Northam.

61/18881/68965 54 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 49. Residential Water Use in the Town of Northam

1100

1050

Residential 1000

950

900

850 •0.5 % / Annum y = •4.5576x + 915.64

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 800

750

700 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 55 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.21 Shire of Nungarin The Shire of Nungarin, one of the nation’s smallest Shires, is located 300 km north east of Perth. It has a population of only 264. Farm water use accounts for the majority of water use within the Shire, comprising 74% of water used from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 50). Residential water use comprises 15%, whilst Parks & Gardens comprise 6% of water used from 1995 – 2007.

Figure 50. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Nungarin from 1995 to 2007

1% 2% 0%2% Accommodation Services 15% Commercial

Farms

6% Industrial

0% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 74%

Mean Annual Consumtion: 129 ML

Farm water use in the Shire of Nungarin has declined at a rate of 2.7% / annum (Figure 50). This may be due to declining stock numbers experienced throughout the region. Avon Catchment Council Community Water Grants funded a landholder in the Nungarin Shire to construct two new dams with roaded catchments, which will save 1.5 ML/year. This represents a 1.6% saving within the farm water use category. The Shire of Nungarin gained Community Water Grants funding to expand the town's stormwater catchment infrastructure and increase the capacity of two storage dams used for irrigating the town gardens and recreational facilities, saving 4.3 ML of water a year. This represents a 55% saving of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 56 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 51. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Nungarin

130

120

Farms 110 •2.7% / Annum

100

90

y = •3.163x + 117.19 80 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual

70

60 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 57 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.22 Shire of Pingelly The Shire of Pingelly is located approximately 158 km south east of Perth. It has a population of 1,168. Residential water use accounts for the majority of water used within the Shire, comprising 67% of total water use within the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 52). Farm water use accounted for 8% of total water within the Shire between 1995 •2007, due to the relatively small proportion of Pingelly Shire land contained within the Avon River basin. Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens account for 17% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 52. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Pingelly from 1995 to 2007

1% Accommodation Services 2% 9% 3% 8% Commercial 2%

Farms 8%

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

67% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Comsumption: 193 ML

Residential water use within the Shire of Pingelly has decreased at a rate of 0.5% / annum since 1995 (Figure 53). Farm water use has increased marginally over the period of record, however due to the small area of the Pingelly Shire contained within the Avon River basin, no inference can be drawn from this data.

61/18881/68965 58 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 53. Farms and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Pingelly

160

140

120 y = •0.0588x + 126.68 100 •0.5 % / Annum 80 Farms 60 Residential

Annual Consumption (ML) 40 4.33 % / Annum y = 0.4676x + 10.816 20

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 59 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.23 Shire of Quairading The Shire of Quairading is located 170 km east of Perth. It has a population of approximately 1,200. Water consumption within the Shire is primarily used by Farms and Residential water use categories, which accounted for 44% and 43% respectively of total water use within the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 54). Services & Amenities accounted for 7% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 54. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Quairading from 1995 to 2007

0% 7% 2%1% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

Industrial 44% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 43% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 1% 2% Mean Annual Consumption: 260 ML

Both Farm and Residential water use fluctuated during the period 1995 – 2007, with underlying decreasing trends of 1.4% and 1.6% respectively (Figure 55). Water use peaks in 1998 and 2001 coincide with low rainfall years. The Morbinning catchment was a priority subcatchment for improved self•sufficiency of water supplies within the Avon Catchment Council Water Management Self•Sufficiency project. The project focused on reducing reliance on the Water Corporation Scheme supplies and generally improving landholder self•sufficiency in water supply. Types of water use funded projects included:

» Installation of rainwater tanks to harvest rainfall from existing buildings;

» Extension of reticulation network to improve distribution of water around the property;

» Development of shallow groundwater supplies;

» Development of roaded catchments on existing dams to improve reliability; and

» Improvement of bore networks to improve distribution of water around the property.

61/18881/68965 60 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting It is estimated that 4 ML/yr of water savings will accrue as a result of investment through implementation of the Water Management and Self•Sufficiency project within the Morbinning catchment. This represents a 3.5% saving of water within the Farm water use category based on mean annual water use for the period 1995 – 2007. The Quairading Community Nature Reserve received a Community Water Grant for the installation of a water free toilet estimated to save approximately 80.3 kL/year, representing 0.05% of water saving in the Services & Amenities water use category. The Shire of Quairading also received a Community Water Grant to upgrade the Quairading townsite borefield. Groundwater will be mixed with water produced by a storm water reuse system currently used to irrigate the town oval and public open space.

Figure 55. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Quairading

0% 7% 2%1% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

Industrial

44% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 43% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 1% 2% Mean Annual Consumption: 260 ML

61/18881/68965 61 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.24 Shire of Tammin The Shire of Tammin is located 180 km east of Perth. It has a small population of 391 and is a predominantly agricultural centre. Agriculture accounts for the majority of water use within the Shire, comprising 73% of total use from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 56). Residential, Commercial and Industrial users accounted for 23% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 56. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Tammin from 1995 to 2007

0% 1% 2% 1% 12% Accommodation Services

Commercial

7% Farms

Industrial 4%

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

73% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 223ML

Farm water use in Tammin has declined at a rate of 1.4% / annum since 1995 (Figure 57), however a slight increase in water consumption in 2007 may indicate underlying seasonal trends influencing recorded variations in water use. Two landholders in the Tammin Shire received Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater tanks and upgrade to the existing reticulation system for a total saving of 1.6 ML/year. This represents a small saving of 1% of farm water use within the Shire. The Shire of Tammin also received Community Water Grant funding to upgrade the existing irrigation system by using captured stormwater and groundwater to irrigate all Parks & Gardens within the town. Irrigation infrastructure at Donnan Park will also be upgraded. These projects will save an estimated 20.3 ML of water per year, representing a 100% saving of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

The Tammin Primary School will save water by capturing rainwater and re•use it for flushing toilets. This, together with additional water saving devices will save 490 kL of water per year. This represents an 11% saving in water within the Services & Amenities water use category.

61/18881/68965 62 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 57. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Tammin

200

190

180

170

160

150 y = •1.6411x + 173.97 140

130

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual Farms •1.4% / Annum 120

110

100 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 63 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.25 Shire of Toodyay The Shire of Toodyay is located 85 km east of Perth. It has a population of 3,774.

Residential water use accounts for 75% of the total water use over the period 1995 – 2007 (Figure 58). The remaining 25% is relatively evenly spread throughout the remaining water use categories.

Figure 58. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Toodyay from 1995 to 2007

6% 2% 5% 3% 3% Accommodation Services 6% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

75%

Mean Annual Consumption: 193 ML

Since 1995, residential water use in the Shire of Toodyay has increased at a rate of 1.9% / annum (Figure 59). This is in response to an increasing population, principally from the development of rural•residential land use. Significant single year spikes in water consumption were evident in 1998 and 2001 and corresponded to below average rainfall. It is predicted the population of the Shire of Toodyay will continue to increase to an estimated 6,200 at 2021 (ABS, 2006), resulting in an increase in demand for IWSS scheme water within the Shire. The Toodyay Club received Community Water Grant funding to replace greens with synthetic turfs, to save an estimated 3.25 ML of water per year. This will represent a 28% water saving within the Parks & Gardens water use category. The Toodyay District High School will upgrade their existing irrigation system to save an estimated 1.3 ML of water per year. This will represent an 11% water saving within the Services & Amenities water use category.

61/18881/68965 64 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 59. Residential Water Use in the Shire of Toodyay

200

190

180 Residential 170 y = 2.4653x + 127.1 160

150 1.9% / Annum

140

130 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 120

110

100 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 65 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.26 Shire of Trayning The Shire of Trayning is located 240 km east of Perth. It has a population of 412.

The Shire is predominantly a farming district and includes the townsites and localities of Trayning, Kununoppin and Yelbeni. Agriculture accounted for the majority of water use within the Shire for the period 1995 – 2007, comprising 75% of total use (Figure 60). Residential, Services & Amenities and Commercial water use categories account for 24% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 60. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Trayning from 1995 to 2007

0% 0%1% 5% 0% Accommodation Services

15% Commercial

Farms

Industrial

4% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 0% Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Transport Infrastructure 75%

Mean Annual Consumption: 238 ML

Farm water use has declined at an average rate of 2.3% / annum since 1995 (Figure 61). It is likely that a decline in sheep numbers over the recorded period caused the decline in water use, overshadowing a slight increase in water use after 2000 resulting from a series of relatively low rainfall years. The decreasing residential water use of 2.5% / annum is probably caused by a decline in population within the region.

The Shire of Trayning received a Community Water Grant to install rainwater tanks at public facilities and water saving devices at the town hall. Together with re•use of stormwater to irrigate grassed sporting facilities, these improvements can achieve a combined saving of 6.6 ML of water per year. The Trayning Bowling Club will save water by replacing their grassed bowling greens with synthetic surfaces, which will save 1.7 ML of water per year. These water efficient practices will represent an 87% saving within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 66 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 61. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Trayning

270

220 •2.3% / Annum y = •5.3748x + 213.5 170 Farms Residential

120

Annual Consumption (ML) •2.5% / Annum 70 y = •0.9856x + 42.925

20 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 67 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.27 Shire of Victoria Plains The Shire of Victoria Plains is located 160 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 1000. The Shire contains several towns and localities including Bolgart, Calingiri, Gillingarra, New Norcia, Piawaning, Waddington and Yerecoin. Residential use accounts for the majority of water used within the Shire, comprising 64% of total water use from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 62). The remaining 36% of water used is evenly split between the other water use categories, with the exception of the Industrial water use category, which accounts for only 1% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 62. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Victoria Plains from 1995 to 2007

6% 4%

9% 11%

1% Commercial 5% Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 64%

Mean Annual Consumption: 20.5 ML

Residential water use displayed a decreasing trend of 1.6% / annum from 1995 – 2004, followed by an increasing trend from 2004 – 2007 of 8.9% / annum (Figure 63). The variations of water use are likely to be in response to climatic variations. Reported farm water use has increased from 1 to 3 ML /annum. Farm water use has increased steadily since 1995 at a rate of 27.8% / annum. A relatively small proportion of the Shire of Victoria Plains is contained within the Avon River basin, representing a small number of total connections within the Shire. As a result no direct inference can be drawn from the farm water use data presented.

61/18881/68965 68 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 63. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Victoria Plains

16

y = 0.8927x + 10.72 14

•1.6% / Annum 12 8.9% / Annum y = •0.2259x + 14.4 10

Residential 8 Farms

6

27.9% / Annum y = 0.2119x + 0.759 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 4

2

0 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008

61/18881/68965 69 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.28 Shire of Westonia The Shire of Westonia is located 316 km east of Perth. It has a population of 250.

Agriculture accounted for the majority of water use within the Shire, with 68% of total water used from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 64). Parks & Gardens and Residential demand account for 26% of total water use (1995 – 2007). The Shire of Westonia is relatively small covering an area of 3,304 km2 and has one of the lowest water consumption rates within the Avon River basin, using an average of 100 ML/year.

Figure 64. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Westonia from 1995 to 2007

1% 3% 2% Commercial

14% Farms

Industrial

12% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation

0% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & 68% Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Consumption: 100 ML

Both farm and residential water consumption declined over the monitoring period 1995 • 2007, at rates of 1.2% and 1.0% / annum respectively (Figure 65). Above average rainfall in 1999 is the likely cause of lower water use recorded during 2000.

The Shire of Westonia has gained Community Water Grant funding to install thermal pool blankets at the Westonia Pool to reduce evaporation. They will also install water tanks to irrigate plants to save an estimated 880 kL of water per year. This will represent a 7% saving of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 70 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 65. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Westonia

80 y = •0.4952x + 71.728 70

60

50 Farms •1.2% / Annum Residential 40

30

•1.0% / Annum y = •0.1464x + 15.182 20 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual

10

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 71 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.29 Shire of Wickepin The Shire of Wickepin is located 220 km south•east of Perth. It has a population of 716.

A predominantly agricultural district, Farm water use accounted for the majority (68% of the total) of water consumed from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 66). Residential water use accounted for 21% of total water use, whilst Services & Amenities and Parks & Gardens accounted for 8% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 66. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wickepin from 1995 to 2007

1% 5% 0% 2% Accommodation Services

Commercial 21% Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 3% Recreation 0% Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 68%

Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Mean Annual Consumption: 335 ML

Both Farm and Residential water use within the Shire of Wickepin have fluctuated since 1995, responding to variations in rainfall. Farm water use has increased at approximately 0.6% / annum and Residential water use has decreased at 0.6% / annum (Figure 67). The Shire of Wickepin has recently sold stage 1 of the Yarling Brook Residential Estate and plans to release a second stage, potentially leading to an increase in Residential water demand. A landholder in the Shire of Wickepin obtained Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater tanks and a groundwater bore, to save an estimated 310 kL of water per year. This represents a 0.1% saving in annual water consumption within the Farm water use category.

The Yealering Primary School will reuse rainwater and retrofit water efficient taps together with installing dual flush toilets to save an estimated 0.35 ML of water per year. This represents a 2% savings of water within the Services & Amenities water use category.

61/18881/68965 72 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 67. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Wickepin

295

245

0.6% / Annum 195 y = 1.3621x + 215.41

145

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual • 0.6% / Annum 95 y = •0.4253x + 71.534

45 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 73 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.30 Shire of Wongan•Ballidu The Shire of Wongan•Ballidu is located 180 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 1,385. Agriculture accounted for 57% of total water use within the Shire from 1995 – 2007, whilst Residential water consumption accounted for 29% (Figure 68). Parks & Gardens and Services & Amenities accounted for 8% of total water use (1995 – 2007).

Figure 68. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wongan•Ballidu from 1995 to 2007

0% 0% 2% Accommodation Services 4% 2% Commercial

Farms

Industrial 29%

Mining

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

57% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 4% 0% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies 2% Transport Infrastructure

Mean Annual Consumption: 532 ML

Both Farm and Residential water use categories have displayed decreasing trends in water demand of 0.8% and 1.2% / annum respectively from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 69). The decrease in Farm water consumption probably reflects a decline in sheep numbers within the region during the period of analysis. Whilst Residential water use has decreased since 1995, proposed developments within the Shire may result in an increase in residential and industrial demand. These developments include the Danubin Rise development, consisting of 38 residential and 22 industrial and light industrial lots. A landholder in the Shire of Wongan•Ballidu obtained Avon Catchment Council funding to install rainwater tanks to save an estimated 60 kL/year. This represents a 0.02% saving in mean annual water use within the Farm water use category.

61/18881/68965 74 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting The Wongan Hill District High School will install constant flow control tap valves, dual flush toilets and no•flush urinals, saving 1.9 ML/annum. This will represent an 8.9% saving of water within the Services & Amenities water use category. The high school will also upgrade the rainwater capture and irrigation system for the school’s oval, representing a 7.5% saving within the Parks & Gardens water use category

Figure 69. Farm Water Use in the Shire of Wongan•Ballidu

400

350 •0.8% / Annum

300 y = •2.4952x + 316.29

250

200 •1.2% / Annum

150

Farms y = •2.1287x + 171.01

Annual Consumption (ML) 100 Residential

50

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 75 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.31 Shire of Wyalkatchem The Shire of Wyalkatchem is located 194 km north east of Perth. It has a population of 620. Farm and Residential water consumption account for the majority of water demand within the Shire, comprising 64% and 23% respectively of total water use from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 70). Services & Amenities and Commercial water use accounted for 10% of total water used from 1995 – 2007.

Figure 70. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Wyalkatchem from 1995 to 2007

0% 7% 1% 2%

Accommodation Services

Commercial

23% Farms

Industrial

Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential 3% 0% Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 64% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies

Mean Annual Consumption: 259 ML

Farm water use has fluctuated since 1995 and has decreased by 1.7% / annum over the recorded period (Figure 71). Declining Farm water use may be attributed to falling sheep numbers, with stabilisation in water demand evident after 2000. Residential water use has also decreased since 1995, at a rate of 0.2% / annum. This is probably due to a decreasing population within the Shire (Table 5). However, a residential subdivision plan for 10 – 15 blocks is scheduled, potentially resulting in slight upward pressure on residential water consumption.

Table 5. Wyalkatchem Population Change (Fletcher, 2008)

Generation 2006 2001 % Change

0 – 4 27 55 •50

5 – 14 99 124 •25

15 – 29 62 77 •158

61/18881/68965 76 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 30 – 44 119 128 •9

45 – 59 113 141 •28

60 – 74 96 111 •15

75 – 89 42 40 2

> 89 6 10 •40

Figure 71. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Wyalkatchem

200

y = •3.3152x + 193.12 180 •1.72% / Annum

160

140 Farms Residential 120

100 •0.2% / Annum

Annual Consumption (ML) 80 y = •0.0994x + 58.579 60

40 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Community Water Grant funding will be used to install infrastructure to enable stormwater re•use, together with the construction of an additional dam to irrigate the recreation oval, tennis courts and bowling green. This will save an estimated 200 kL/year. A pool cover will also be used to save an estimated 1.3 ML of water per year. The Wyalkatchem Bowling club will install rainwater tanks to collect runoff to irrigate the club's greens via a water efficient subsurface irrigation system. This will save an estimated 1 ML of water per year. The Wyalkatchem Tennis Club will also install water tanks and irrigation timers to facilitate more efficient watering and save an estimated 2 ML/annum. These water efficient practices will result in a 58% savings in water use within the Parks & Gardens water use category. The Wyalkatchem District High School will install slow flow taps, dual flush toilets, waterless urinals, water tanks and a sub•surface irrigation system to save 681.5 kL/annum.

61/18881/68965 77 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting This represents a 3.7% saving in water use within the Services & Amenities water use category. The Wyalkatchem Land Conservation District Committee will install roadside catchment drains to increase water harvesting efficiency, which will save an estimated 1.8 ML /annum. This represents a 0.1% savings in water use within the Farm water use category.

61/18881/68965 78 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.32 Shire of Yilgarn The Shire of Yilgarn is located 370 km east of Perth. It has a population of approximately 3,000. Residential and Farm water consumption accounts for 37% and 34% respectively of total water use within the Shire from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 72). The remaining water use categories account for 28% of total water use within the Shire (1995 – 2007).

Figure 72. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of Yilgarn from 1995 to 2007

4% 0% 9%

4% Accommodation Services

Commercial

Farms

Industrial 37%

Mining

34% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities

Stand Pipes, Community Water 7% 1% 4% Supplies Mean Annual Consumtion: 419 ML

Both Residential and Farms water use displayed a steady decline of 1.5% and 2% / annum respectively since 1995. The decline in Residential water use is consistent with the other towns located within the eastern part of the Avon River basin and also consistent with a declining population base. Whilst both water use categories have fluctuated since 1995 due largely to rainfall influences, the decreasing water consumption trend in agricultural (farm) water use is probably a result of reduced sheep numbers within the region. Similar declining water consumption trends are evident for the Accommodation Services, Mining and Parks & Gardens water use categories. Moorine Park Primary School gained Community Water Grant funding to install tanks to harvest rainwater and to upgrade the irrigation system, saving 585 kL / annum. This represents a 2% savings of water within the Parks & Gardens water use category.

61/18881/68965 79 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 73. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of Yilgarn

210

190

•1.5% / Annum 170 y = •2.7501x + 178.34

150 •2% / Annum

130

y = •3.3659x + 166.24 Residential 110 Annual Consumption (ML) Farms

90

70 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

Figure 74 Accommodation Services, Mining and Parks & Gardens Water use – Shire of Yilgarn

80

Accommodation Services 70 Mining 60 Parks, Gardens, Reserves & Recreation 50

40 •2.7% / Annum y = •1.1781x + 43.937

30 •9% / Annum y = •3.3737x + 51.726

Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 20 y = •4.1642x + 46.151 •6.6% / Annum 10

0 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 80 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 5.33 Shire of York The Shire of York is located 97 km east of Perth. It has a population of 3,484.

York is the oldest inland town in Western Australia and its historic character coupled with its close proximity to Perth make it a popular location for country lifestyle living. Water consumption within the Shire is dominated by Residential use, which accounted for 66% of total water use from 1995 – 2007 (Figure 75). Agriculture accounted for 18% of total water use (1995 – 2007), whilst the remaining water consumption within the Shire is relatively evenly divided between the other water use categories.

Figure 75. Total Water Consumption in the Shire of York from 1995 to 2007

2% 0%

3% 2% 2% Accommodation Services

18% Commercial

Farms

Industrial 2% Parks, Gardens, Reserves & 5% Recreation Residential

Services, Infrastructure & Amenities 66% Stand Pipes, Community Water Supplies Transport Infrastructure Mean Annual Consumption: 563 ML

Both Residential and Farm water use have increased since 1995, at rates of 1.8% and 1.2% / annum respectively (Figure 76). Significant increases in water consumption within the Residential category in 1998 and 2001 correlate to low rainfall years. The increasing water use trend within the Residential water use category is probably due to increasing residential and rural•residential developments within the Shire. The Shire of York Local Water Management Strategy outlines several developments within the Shire that indicate that residential water consumption will increase in the short to medium term. Single year fluctuations in water use evident in 1998 and 2001 can be attributed to years of below average rainfall. The increasing trend for Farm water use is probably due to the increasing number of hobby farms within the Shire. The Avon Catchment Council provided funding for a landholder in the Shire of York to install rainwater tanks and a reticulation system to save 400 kL/year. This will represent a 0.4% saving in water use within the Farms water use category. 61/18881/68965 81 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting Figure 76. Farm and Residential Water Use in the Shire of York

480 y = 5.9898x + 336.41 430

380

1.8% / Annum 330

280 Residential Farms 230

180 Annual Consumption (ML) Consumption Annual 1.2% / Annum y = 1.1655x + 92.771 130

80 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007

61/18881/68965 82 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 6. Conclusion

Benefits associated with reduced reliance on the Water Corporation Integrated Water Supply Scheme (IWSS) in rural and regional areas within the Avon River basin include more responsible use of an important resource, freeing up water from alternative uses, and water savings to the State Government due to the subsidised nature of water delivered within regional areas. The development of alternative water supplies can reduce the implications of potential failure of, or disruption to, the Water Corporation IWSS. Investment in private water infrastructure will benefit landholders by protecting them from disruption to the Water Corporation IWSS and will benefit authorities by reducing pressure on large public water resources. However, the level to which landholders and LGAs will be able to become self• sufficient for water supply is dependent on a range of external factors. For example, predictions of climate change in the Avon River basin indicate reductions in annual rainfall and increased ambient temperatures will both likely to result in an increase in water demand throughout the region. Agriculture consumes 40% of water delivered through the Water Corporation IWSS within the Avon River basin. The most significant changes to water use within the Basin are associated with farm water demand. The potential impact of climate change is likely to exert significant influence over agricultural water use throughout the region.

In setting targets for reductions in reliance on the Water Corporation IWSS, external influences such as climate change and the economics of developing alternative supplies need to be considered. Previous work has indicated the economics of developing alternative agricultural water supplies within the region are marginal (GHD 2007). It is considered the level of adoption of alternative water supplies to the Water Corporation IWSS will be influenced significantly by the level of investment made available through State and Commonwealth funding programs, and regional NRM initiatives. Table 6 summarises projects partially funded through the Avon Catchment Council, including incentives for development of alternative supplies at subcatchment, individual landholder and Local Government Infrastructure levels. The analysis indicates investment in agricultural water supplies costs the ACC approximately $11 • $15 /kL in the year of expenditure. This equates to a 10 year break• even period, assuming current Water Corporation charges for agricultural water supplies of $500 per connection and $0.95 per kilolitre and a discount rate of 5%. This is in contrast to the cost of $3 /kL for ACC investment in LGA water infrastructure over the same period, representing a 2 – 3 year break•even period, assuming standard Water Corporation water charges and a discount rate of 5%. For the most part, investment in farm self•sufficiency projects have delivered water savings, however these do not represent a large reduction in the total amount of water use in this water use category, having reduced consumption by less than 1% (Table 8).

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 83 Table 6. Avon Catchment Council Investment in Water Self•Sufficiency Projects (2005 –2008)

Avon Catchment Projected Water Council Savings (ML) Costs Cost / kL

Morbinning 6.1 $78,250 $12.83

Wallatin 10.2 $117,300 $11.50

Brookton 29 $87,000 $3.00

Mukinbudin 14 $42,000 $3.00

Farm Water Grants (ACC) 12 $180,000 $15.00

Total 71.3 $496,625 $ 7.40

A range of Community Water Grant projects has been undertaken within the Avon River basin funded through the Commonwealth Government sponsored National Water Initiative. The Community Water Grants have been utilised by Local Government and community organisations. A summary of successful Community Water Grants projects within the Avon River basin is presented in Table 7, listed according to the Water Corporation water use category. Table 7 illustrates the Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation water use category as the most cost•efficient water savings category achieved through Community Water Grants projects. Investment in water infrastructure for Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation represents a 3 – 4 year break•even period, assuming standard Water Corporation charges and a 5% discount rate. Investment in Local Government Authorities for projects has produced a saving of almost 40% in scheme water use and has been the most cost•effective method of implementing self•sufficiency water projects in the region (Table 8).

Table 7. Investment from Community Water Grant

Potential Water Category of saving Savings (ML) Grant Costs Cost/kL

Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation 325 $1,697,813 $5.21

Services, Amenities and Infrastructure 6.8 $295,811 $43.54

Farm 1.8 $16,618 $9.35

Total 398 $2,548,672 $6.40

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 84 The Water Corporation estimates that an average of 527 ML of scheme water is applied to Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation facilities by municipal bodies in the Avon River basin each year. It is estimated the Community Water Grants received by LGAs to develop self•sufficient water supplies within the region will result in a 326 ML/year saving. This represents a 60% reduction in Water Corporation scheme water being applied to Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation facilities as a result of investment made through the Community Water Grants project. Even considering an overestimation of the potential water savings likely to be achieved through implementation of projects, this relates to a very significant reduction in water use within the region. Assuming the same costs and benefits associated with previous investment, an additional investment of $1.05 Million directed at water saving projects associated with Parks, Gardens, Reserves and Recreation Facilities would virtually eliminate reliance on Water Corporation scheme water for this consumption category. Investment in water savings in the Services, Amenities & Infrastructure category through Community Water Grants appears to have been less economically efficient, principally due to the type of water saving activities being undertaken. This generally involves engineering intensive activities including installation of water efficient devices, water free toilets etc. Investment in Services, Amenities and Infrastructure water saving is calculated to have a 40 • 50 year break•even period, assuming standard Water Corporation charges and a 5% discount rate.

Table 8. Projected Investment in Community Water Grant Self•Sufficiency projects

Savings Average Annual in Water % Category Use (kL) Use (kL) Savings

Farms 4,366,149 30,077 0.69%

Local Government Use 1,035,223 405,533 39.17%

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 85 7. Forecast

In the period 1995 – 2007 there was a mean annual decline in demand for water within the Water Corporation Integrated Water Supply Scheme (IWSS) of approximately 100 ML/year. However it is likely a reduction in livestock numbers, particularly within the central, eastern and northern areas of the Avon River basin, has driven this decrease in demand for Water Corporation scheme water by the agricultural sector. In the latter part of the recorded period (post 2000), a series of low rainfall years has resulted in a firming of demand for water across all categories within the region. In forecasting the likely demand for Water Corporation scheme water within the Avon River basin over the coming period, the impacts of climate change need to be considered. In addition, economic factors influencing the capacity of the region to develop alternative water supplies and potential demand for Commercial and Industrial water use are also important considerations. These factors are difficult to predict, influencing the ability to accurately forecast the likely demand for Water Corporation scheme water in the coming period. It is considered likely that there will be a neutral underlying trend in the demand for water within the Avon River basin moving forward to the short to medium term, with the potential for a moderate increase in demand for reticulated water supplies, based on economic and climatic influences. An investment of more than $2.5 Million in self•sufficiency projects directed through the Commonwealth Government initiative Community Water Grants project is estimated to have resulted in water savings of approximately 400 ML. An investment of approximately $375,000 through the Avon Catchment Council Water Management Self•Sufficiency Project, predominantly associated with developing alternative agricultural water supplies, has resulted in estimated water savings of 38 ML in the period 2005 – 2008.

Assuming no underlying trend in demand for Water Corporation scheme water supplies within the Avon River basin, targets for reduced consumption will be almost entirely based on the likely impact of government incentives offered within the region.

The most significant contributor of incentives for the development of alternative water supplies within the region was the now defunct Community Water Grants. State government investment in self•sufficiency for water supplies in the Avon River basin currently prohibits investment where landholders have access to the Water Corporation scheme water supply. In addition, there is limited capacity to extend investment to develop alternative water supplies within the Avon Catchment Council investment plan after 2008.

As a result it is considered no additional reduction in the demand for water from the Water Corporation scheme supply network is likely in the short • medium term. In the event that incentive funding is available for development of self•sufficient water supplies as an alternative to Water Corporation scheme water, realistic targets will depend on the nature of incentives offered and in particular the water use category to which incentives are directed. Analysis undertaken within this project indicates the cost of developing alternative supplies and therefore, the volume of water saved per unit of investment, is dependent on the

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 86 water use category to which the incentives are directed. Investment in replacing water supplies for Parks & Gardens was found to be the most economic, with a 2 • 3 year break•even period, followed by agricultural investment with a 10 year break•even period and Services, Amenities & Infrastructure with a 40 • 50 year break• even period, based on standard Water Corporation charges and a 5% discount rate.

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 87 8. References

Australian Wool Innovation Limited. 2007. Australian Wool Production Forecast Report, September 2007. ABS, Census 2006 & WAPC, WA Tomorrow Forecasts 2005

Department of Environment (2005) Rural Water Plan GHD 2007 Review of Current Management Criteria for Water Supplies within the Avon River basin, Water Management Self•Sufficiency Project, Report by GHD for the Avon Catchment Council, Northam, Western Australia 2007 GHD. 2008. Report for Surface Water Management and Self•Sufficiency. Constructed Storage Analysis. GHD.

Fletcher, S. 2008. Wyalkatchem’s Plan for the Future 2008 – 2028. Shire of Wyalkatchem. Newman, P. 2005. The city and the bush: partnerships to reverse the population decline in Australia’s Wheatbelt. Australian Journal of Agricultural Research, 56 (6), 527•535.

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 88 Appendix A Summary of Shire Water Use

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 89 Farm Residential Water usage Water usage Trend Shire Trend (ML/year) Trend (%) Trend (%) (ML)1995 (ML)1995 (ML/year) SHIRE OF BEVERLEY 31.63 0.35 1.10% 125.07 0.13 0.100% SHIRE OF BROOKTON 25.02 0.08 0.30% 89.27 0.00 0.000% SHIRE OF NORTHAM 284.93 •3.42 •1.20% 316.74 5.07 1.600% SHIRE OF TOODYAY 5.76 0.15 2.60% 129.56 2.46 1.900% SHIRE OF VICTORIA PLAINS 0.97 0.27 27.90% 14.17 0.01 0.070% SHIRE OF YORK 93.94 1.13 1.20% 342.40 6.16 1.800% TOWN OF NORTHAM 5.92 0.06 1.01% 911.08 •4.56 •0.500% SHIRE OF CUNDERDIN 219.35 •1.75 •0.80% 147.93 0.15 0.100% SHIRE OF QUAIRADING 126.44 •1.77 •1.40% 124.32 •1.99 •1.600% SHIRE OF GOOMALLING 145.70 •1.60 •1.10% 93.60 •1.59 •1.700% SHIRE OF BRUCE ROCK 260.27 •5.86 •2.25% 102.46 •0.72 •0.700% SHIRE OF MERREDIN 264.03 •3.17 •1.20% 455.11 •2.73 •0.600% SHIRE OF MOUNT MARSHALL 159.18 •0.96 •0.60% 40.98 •0.41 •1.000% SHIRE OF TAMMIN 172.33 •2.41 •1.40% 25.81 0.00 0.002% SHIRE OF NAREMBEEN 113.56 •0.11 •0.10% 80.15 0.16 0.200% SHIRE OF NUNGARIN 114.03 •3.08 •2.70% 19.73 0.06 0.300% SHIRE OF KELLERBERRIN 254.29 •7.76 •3.05% 152.39 •1.22 •0.800% SHIRE OF WESTONIA 71.23 •0.85 •1.20% 15.13 •0.15 •1.000% SHIRE OF YILGARN 162.87 •3.26 •2.00% 175.59 •2.63 •1.500% SHIRE OF TRAYNING 208.12 •4.79 •2.30% 41.94 •1.05 •2.500% SHIRE OF DALWALLINU 125.16 •0.06 •0.05% 117.71 •0.82 •0.700% SHIRE OF DOWERIN 276.10 •2.21 •0.80% 82.79 •1.16 •1.400% SHIRE OF MUKINBUDIN 122.23 •0.11 •0.09% 71.78 •1.51 •2.100% SHIRE OF KOORDA 172.24 •3.79 •2.20% 62.76 •0.94 •1.500% SHIRE OF WONGAN•BALLIDU 313.79 •2.51 •0.80% 168.88 •2.03 •1.200% SHIRE OF WYALKATCHEM 189.80 •3.26 •1.72% 58.48 •0.12 •0.200% SHIRE OF CORRIGIN 69.74 •1.12 •1.60% 123.30 •1.60 •1.300% SHIRE OF KENT 6.95 4.41 63.50% 9.50 0.00 •0.010% SHIRE OF KONDININ 65.65 1.97 3.00% 70.95 •0.04 •0.050% SHIRE OF KULIN 111.49 1.90 1.70% 62.64 •0.13 •0.200% SHIRE OF LAKE GRACE 24.68 6.98 28.30% 114.24 0.80 0.700% SHIRE OF PINGELLY 11.28 0.49 4.33% 126.62 •0.63 •0.500% SHIRE OF WICKEPIN 216.77 1.30 0.60% 71.11 •0.43 •0.600%

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 90 61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 91 GHD Pty Ltd ABN 39 008 488 373 GHD House, 239 Adelaide Tce. Perth, WA 6004 P.O. Box Y3106, Perth WA 6832 T: 61 8 6222 8222 F: 61 8 6222 8555 E: [email protected]

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Document Status

Rev Reviewer Approved for Issue Author No. Name Signature Name Signature Date

A D Walker M Giraudo

B M. Stovold M Giraudo M Giraudo 26/11/2008

61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 92 61/18881/68965 Surface Water Management and Self Sufficiency Regional Water demand and target setting 93