Sensible use of sprinklers urged

Baldivis residents are being urged to be more sensible in their use of water after the Telegraph revealed last week it was the worst-offending suburb in the metropolitan area for breaching sprinkler restrictions.

Water Minister Mia Davies said there had been a spike in the number of fines, with Baldivis topping the acrimonious list with 304 infringements since last July.

Wellard was the sixth worst-offending suburb, with 124 fines handed out.

City of Rockingham Mayor Barry Sammels said he backed Ms Davies’ assertion that vigilance should be applied.

“Although no excuse for overuse, the City notes that the top usage suburbs in the report are newer suburbs where householders are establishing their gardens after building new homes,” he said.

“The City also has a role to play in conserving water by ensuring that our vast sprinkler system is working properly and that we only water reserves and parks when appropriate.

“Water is one of our most precious resources and I urge all residents to do their bit to reduce usage.”

Water Corporation spokeswoman Clare Lugar said if people were trying to establish new gardens, a break in the two-day-a-week sprinkler roster could be afforded.

“This financial year, we have seen a 230 per cent increase in infringements across the entire Perth metropolitan area,” she said.

“We recognise that residents living in newer areas such as Baldivis are often establishing new gardens.

“To assist people establishing new gardens, residents are able to apply for a short-term exemption to their sprinkler roster by calling Water Corporation on 13 10 39.”