Source: Progress Leader (Australia)
From Yarra River flooding to the State Government's announcement of permanent water restrictions it seems it never rains but pours in Boroondara.
Kew Golf Course superintendent Adam Robertson said the organization was ready to open the course again after it had to close for 11 days because of flooding.
Melbourne Water statistics show the Yarra River reached its highest level this financial year on Nov. 14, at more than 2 meters above its usual level.
Robertson said that at the peak of the flood, 17 holes were under water.
"You could grow rice in it at the moment," Robertson said.
He said it was to be expected that the course would flood occasionally, because it was on a flood plain.
"Mother nature wants to flood it now and again," he said.
Meanwhile Water Minister John Thwaites announced Stage 2 water restrictions would remain until the end of the summer when new permanent water restrictions came in.
Key restrictions include: time limits on the watering of gardens; a requirement for all hoses to be fitted with trigger nozzles; and a ban on hosing down driveways, paths, concrete and other paved areas.
The restrictions also require anyone wanting to install a pool or spa with a capacity of 2000 litres or more to submit a plan to the local water authority showing how the household would save an equivalent amount of water.
Swimming Pool and Spa Association of Victoria chief executive Elizabeth van Beek said as the industry had already been operating under a similar rule since water restrictions came into force, it would be unaffected.
Camberwell Morning Garden Club secretary Mary Cooke said members had welcomed the introduction of permanent measures.
"It is up to everybody to do their part on water. I get very cross when I see water being wasted."
