Kempsey switches to dam water as river levels decline

Published on 25 August 2023

The Macleay River seen from Green Hill lookout

Water supplies for parts of Kempsey and the Lower Macleay have switched to the Steuart McIntyre Dam following continued dry weather and declining river levels.

Kempsey Shire Council has switched over its water supply source from the Sherwood Borefield to the Steuart McIntyre Dam for parts of Kempsey and the Lower Macleay.

The river will remain a vital water source as Council will continue to pump up to 8.5 megalitres per day from the Sherwood Borefield to supplement the dam supply.

Water will be treated at the dam before being distributed to reservoirs across the shire.

River flow levels in the Macleay River have dropped significantly in recent weeks and are now close to the trigger point for Level 1 water restrictions. By sourcing water from the Steuart McIntyre Dam, Council can continue water supply operations to meet levels under the current Permanent water restrictions level. Read more on the different water restriction levels.

Residents in the Kempsey and Lower Macleay areas may notice a slight difference in the taste of the water with the change to dam supply. The changeover may also create some dirty water within the system.

If householders or other members of the community experience dirty tap water, you are advised to run a tap into a bucket or basin until the water turns clear and then distribute the excess water for outdoor use.