REMEMBER WHEN

GOLD COAST BULLETIN Monday, March 8, 2004

THE Gold Coast’s severe water restrictions were set to be lifted as Mayor Gary Baildon declared the drought over with recent rain adding 3.5m to Hinze Dam.

The dam had nudged past 80 per cent capacity after more than 200mm fell in the catchment area.

It had been more than two

years since the dam had held so much water.

Councillors had previously said they would consider the removal of all restrictions once the dam returned to 75 per cent.

The level’s increase slowed to a trickle and it was hovering just above 80 per cent.

Cr Baildon said the rain was fantastic for the Gold Coast and he promised more good news after councillors meet to discuss water restrictions.

“I believe we will be able to lift

our water restrictions entirely,” he said. “I am optimistic that after this meeting we are going to have really good news for the people of the Gold Coast. This has been the worst drought in our history so we are absolutely delighted.

“I really feel that I can say that the drought is finally over.”

Council water committee chairwoman Daphne McDonald said the water gushing into the dam was a sight for sore eyes.

“It has just been absolutely fabulous,” she said.