Donated MIA water is soon to arrive at places in the far west in desperate need of quenching.
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The project is being coordinated on the ground by Regional Development Australia (RDA), Far West NSW, in conjunction with Department of Primary Industries Water and State and Federal Government Drought staff.
The water will go to families around Tibooburra, Milparinka and Silverton, a decision made from Farrer MP Sussan Ley's liaisons with RDA and Water NSW.
Essential Water are now working to establish new stand pipes to increase access efficiency and reduce costs associated with water carting.
It is pleasing to see that the concept is now coming to fruition and we are able to help those in desperate need of this water.
- Tony 'Tank' Sergi
It is anticipated these new stand pipes will be completed soon, however water is now available through existing infrastructure.
This water is being made available free of charge to people in the Unincorporated Area and Central Darling Shire. However users will be responsible for transport costs.
The group of Murrumbidgee farmers, rallied by Tony 'Tank' Sergi, have donated over 28 megalitres.
"It is pleasing to see that the concept is now coming to fruition and we are able to help those in desperate need of this water," Mr Sergi said.
He thanks the generous donors from across Griffith, Leeton and further afield.
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"People have called me from as far away as Newcastle and Victoria to offer their support," he said.
"I would also like to make special mention of Peter Cremasco who has been fantastic in helping to promote this initiative."
Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) senior customer services officer Belynda Henderson has worked with Mr Sergi and the donors to move individual donations into the one holding account. MI waived all charges associated with transferring the water.
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"We then worked with WaterNSW to trade the water from our Murrumbidgee Irrigation Bulk Water Licence to an Essential Water Licence in Broken Hill," she said.
RDA Far West recognise and sincerely thank the donors, who themselves are struggling through the drought.
"Additionally RDA Far West would like to thank Essential Water, Broken Hill City Council and Central Darling Shire Council for their support in ensuring this water has been made available as quick as possible," a statement said.
