Recycled water should be piped inland, not out to sea

IN reference to your excellent article (Aug 13, 2018) “City flush with funding”, which listed projects totalling $637 million to upgrade the Gold Coast’s water and sewerage network, including $400 million for the delivery of a long-term recycled water release.

City of the Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate advised this water is to be taken via a pipeline to be released into the ocean at South Stradbroke Island.

What an opportune time to take full advantage and reverse this idea. Rather than sending the recycled water into the sea; why not send this “liquid gold” to the parched Outback?

It could benefit the exhausted farmers dealing with dying animals, nil growth of grass, fodder and agriculture.

With these extensive funds the key is to begin the supply of this much-needed water, by utilising perhaps the existing water treatment systems, pipeline connections and even using creeks, rivers or natural water courses to supply water to the vast Outback and beyond.

This initial introduction of water supply would then encourage other government bodies to join financially and grow this idea, lessening the environmental harm to their regions.

The benefits are endless; improvement of millions of acres of pasture and agriculture, increase in stock numbers, prosperity to country towns and debt-encumbered rural families.

As a direct result, work opportunities would thus be increased.

It truly would be a win, win situation for all.

It’s time to reverse oldfahioned thinking and look to the future, to enhance the quality of our country and rural living standards.

And to offer vast natural rewards for our children and grandchildren, for the benefit of Queensland, Australia and the world.

KELVIN NICKALLS, PARADISE POINT