Murrumbidgee Irrigation Aids Drought Relief

3 February 2003

In an effort to relieve some of the pressure being felt by farming families Murrumbidgee Irrigation has made water available to the rural community for stock and domestic supply.

Rural families in need of water for stock and domestic use may make application to Murrumbidgee Irrigation for water. Tanker loads of water are available from designated filling sites. The water is free of charge.

"As the drought continues many farmers are finding their on-farm storages exhausted," said Geoff Hipkins, Chief Executive of Murrumbidgee Irrigation. "We will do all we can to ensure families have at least enough water to maintain their household and meet the immediate needs of their stock.

To date only a few people have taken advantage of the offer, however, we are expecting to receive more applications over the coming weeks unless we receive some much needed rain relief.

Murrumbidgee Irrigation is committed to supporting our shareholders and the broader community. The relief offer is open to anyone in the rural community in need of water. During times of hardship, like we are currently experiencing, it is important that all sectors of the community work together to support each other,' concluded Mr Hipkins.

To apply for stock and domestic water contact Murrumbidgee Irrigation Offices in Leeton (6953 0100) or Griffith (6962 0200).

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