Mount Isa splash pad operations threatened by drought

Continued operation of the Mount Isa Family Fun Park is under scrutiny as the outback Queensland community continues to suffer through its worst drought conditions in decades.

While recent upgrades to the flitration system at the splashpad/water spray ground include a water filtration system within its own treatment plant, with 100% water recycling, evaporation of up to 600 litres of water a day has concerned local residents already coping with severe water restrictions.

Mount Isa City Council acting Director of Engineering Services Ric Marino told local media that, because of the sophisticated filtration system "there was no actual water loss", but estimated that up to 10% of water could be lost to evaporation on hot days.

Mount Isa's main water supply, Lake Moondarra is already at a serious low, sitting at just over 33% capacity. The back-up supply of Lake Julius, which requires special pumping to transport water, to the city is at 69.75%.

Mt Isa Mayor Tony McGrady said if the city did not see rain soon, the council would be forced to take "drastic measures" and possibly impose further water restrictions, but not at the water park, stating "we need to ensure the quality of life and we will do our level best to keep the facility open."

Mayor McGrady emphasised that the city's residents must preserve water immediately, adding "Mount Isa has to conserve water due (and) "Council, Mount Isa Mines and the Mount Isa Water Board are working together to reduce any impact on (the) community."

"Council has already taken steps to reduce the citys usage over the weekend by closing down all of its park and median irrigation systems and will only be watering by water truck using effluent and bore supplied water to ensure that the survival of the city's beautification areas."

The Mount Isa Family Fun Park is the largest all abilities playground in Queensland.

Opened in 2009, the $4.25 million facility includes a splashpad/water spray ground along with a junior play area with challenging installations and play equipment, a sensory garden, a Double Flying Fox, a permanent outdoor stage and BBQ facilities.

For more information go to www.mountisa.qld.gov.au/family-fun-park