The Waterwise Council Program was recognised at the WA Local Government Convention today, for a decade of helping local governments across Western Australia create liveable and sustainable communities.
The City of Mandurah and the City of Perth were acknowledge by Water Minister Dave Kelly for their efforts of providing waterwise leadership to their communities over the past 10 years.
A sustainable commemorative park bench was awarded to each council to recognise their contributions to the State and commitment to the program.
The benches were designed and made in WA from recycled Forrest Stewardship Council timber and recycled plastic.
The Program's aim is to improve livability by recognising and assisting local governments that strive to improve water use within their community.
In 2017, the City of Mandurah achieved the Gold Waterwise Council status, as well as taking out the Platinum Waterwise Council of the Year award.
Minister Kelly said he encourages the remaining local governments to join the Program.
"For a decade, Water Corporation, Department of Water and Environmental Regulation and local governments have been working together to create waterwise communities," Minister Kelly said.
"The impact of this work cannot be underestimated; especially as climate change continues to impact the south west of Western Australia.
"Since the 1970s, May to July rainfall in the south west has reduced by around 20 per cent, and since 1999, this reduction has increased to around 26 per cent.
"Congratulations and thank you to the 40 endorsed Waterwise Councils and 19 participating across Western Australia, especially the City of Perth and City of Mandurah who have led the way over the past decade."
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