Water theft on the rise in Downs
Trucks seen near important sources
WATER theft is on the rise as drought continues to ravage sought-after supplies across the Southern Downs.
Dozens of trucks and utes have been sighted carrying water up and down Glen Rd in Warwick, leading some residents to speculate whether water from the standpipe and water treatment plant was being taken illegally.
During a community meeting at Town Hall on Monday, the Southern Downs Regional Council was asked whether they truly had a grip on water movements in town.
Mayor Tracy Dobie said many of the vehicles seen carting water could have legitimate reasons to do so, with licences to sell water or urban water trucks taking supplies out to rural residents.
But as water becomes a resource more valuable than gold, it becomes more likely for thieves to begin targeting water sources such as dams or rivers.
“We do know there has been water theft in the region,” Cr Dobie said.
“It’s disheartening, but it’s happening, and we’re doing everything we can to close down everything with council.”
Cr Dobie said council had to close most park taps because of reports people were driving in to turn them on and supplement their private supply.
“Some people have even been taking from schools, and Eric Dr is another popular destination,” council CEO David Keenan said.
There have also been two reported incidents of water theft on private property, according to Councillor Marika McNichol.
“In the last couple of months I’ve heard of people going to properties and stealing from tanks and dams,” she said.
“I know a lady who told me she had three loads of water delivered from tanks and put into a big tank, then afterward found out it was all emptied.
“I think it will continue because people get desperate and it’s not good, but it happens.”
Water manager Seren McKenzie said the council relied on people to report suspected water theft.
“We can’t be everywhere,” she said. “But if we see it, we crack down on it.”