Sydney Water has kicked off the New Year with its annual campaign encouraging Sydneysiders to save water.
Managing Director at Sydney Water, Roch Cheroux said the annual Turn it off Bob campaign was returning at a time of challenges with raw water quality and supply following Sydney’s wettest year on record and its impact on Warragamba Dam.
Mr Cheroux said the campaign would remind customers to minimise their outdoor water use throughout summer where the average increase in water uses spikes by up to 20 per cent.
“There have been significant challenges this year drawing treatable raw water out of Warragamba dam, which has put pressure on our systems,” Mr Cheroux said.
“We are asking our customers to save water wherever possible, and by doing that, Sydney Water teams have a much better chance of continuing to provide world-class water to Sydney.”
Head of Supply and Product at Sydney Water, Ben Blayney said there was only a narrow section of about 20 metres (from the available 60 metres) in Warragamba Dam, which was suitable to be treated.
“We need people to remember to turn the tap off and limit outdoor water use unless it is absolutely necessary,” Mr Blayney said.
“Even the most minor changes in behaviour around the house can have a considerable impact,” he said.
“In the past 12 months, Sydney Water customers have used a total of 338.9 gigalitres of drinking water.
“That’s the equivalent of more than 135 thousand Olympic swimming pools,” he said.
Sydney Water’s water saving tips can be accessed at this PS News link.
