Producers praise downpour

A thunderstorm brought much needed rain.

WELCOMED WATER: More than 40mm rain fell at Gayndah's Big Orange, welcomed by producers after a hot start to the year. Picture: Felicity Ripper

TANKS were topped and rivers refreshed as a thunderstorm brought much needed rain to the region last night, with reports of up to 116mm falling on parched farms.

Growers flooded social media to share the good news after their water supply was boosted ahead of the looming citrus season.

The Bureau of Meteorology recorded more than 70mm at Mount Lawless, near Gayndah.

Red Rich Fruit's national operations manager Tim Teague said it was great news for Mount Lawless orchards.

"It should size the fruit up earlier than expected which is good,” Mr Teague said.

"It's also filled up our tanks ahead of the season.”

Mr Teague said it's been unusually hot for this time of year and cooler temperatures forecast in the coming weeks will help bring a richer colour to the fruit.

More than 40mm fell on the Big Orange's orchards in town and owner Neil Richards said he was happy with the conditions as well.

"With all this rain and then a cold change coming, it's all happening at the right time,” he said.

"It should be perfect for the fruit.”

BOM 24 hour rainfall recordings (to 9am, March 15)

Gayndah 37 mm

Eidsvold 18mm

Mundubbera 4.2mm

Mingo Crossing 44mm

Biggenden 5mm

Monto 2mm