The runoff in the Fitzroy Basin this wet season is the lowest since 1969. Rainfalls are well below average. If no significant rainfall occurs before spring many properties will face severe water shortages. Irrigators and industrial users continue to be well supplied from storages in Emerald, Dawson, Callide, Boyne, Fitzroy and Mackay areas although there will have to be reduced allocations next season if there are no substantial inflows to the systems in the next six months. Irrigation in the sugar areas near Mackay is at near peak demand due to the hot dry conditions.
Surface water remains variable.
Many properties that have received significant rainfall now have all dams and watercourses full. There are however areas that require further rainfall to consolidate their supply. In the Ipswich district surface water supplies vary from low to excellent. Ground water supplies vary markedly depending on local rainfall but generally water supplies are low, with ground water in Kilkivan critical. Significant drops in aquifer levels in the Eidsvold district have been noted, with levels south of Monto declining, and north of Monto maintaining their levels.