South Burnett Regional Council, Media Release, 31 May 2021

South Burnett Regional Council Mayor Brett Otto revealed he is getting desperate for a permanent water solution for Kingaroy, saying he has called on the state government to help make a case for federal funding.

“We are facing a crisis with water and Council needs help to progress solutions before our residents and our agricultural economy suffer greatly,” the Mayor said.

The Mayor said he again raised the issue with Members of Parliament, including local MP Deb Frecklington and Water Minister Hon Glenn Butcher.

‘Obviously, Deb Frecklington’s hands are tied in Opposition but it is very important for this area. I am looking forward to working with the Member for Nanango, State and Commonwealth Governments to ensure we have permanent, long term solutions,” he said.

Mayor Otto said he was buoyed by the good reception he received from Minister Glenn Butcher and his Director General.

“Minister Butcher has a good understanding of the issue and I am confident he will help us navigate solutions to avoid a crisis,” the Mayor said.

“We all need to get on the same page with this issue or we will end up trucking water and that is not sustainable for us or for the Queensland Taxpayer,” he said.

A federal funded report was prepared by prominent consulting firm, Jacobs, and highlights potential solutions for the imminent water crisis. Mayor Otto said we must negotiate those costings with the federal government.

“Our community needs water and we have been burdened by previous governments with an asset that no longer meets our requirements,” he said.

The Mayor is travelling to Canberra next month and is seeking meetings with politicians, including federal Minister for Water the Hon Keith Pitt.

“We need to ensure our agricultural industries have water security, and most importantly our community has drinking water,” he concluded.

For further information contact Mayor Brett Otto on 1300 789 279, 4189 9100 or email info@sbrc.qld.gov.au.