Toowoomba residents call for new debate on recycled water

TOOWOOMBA residents have overwhelmingly called for a new debate around recycled water, after former mayor Di Thorley’s comments lit up social media.

Toowoomba residents have called for a new debate on recycled water.

TOOWOOMBA residents have overwhelming called for a new debate around recycled water, after former mayor Di Thorley’s comments lit up social media.

Readers on The Chronicle’s Facebook page agreed with Ms Thorley’s view that Toowoomba might support the controversial concept if asked again.

The popular and outspoken Toowoomba City Council mayor from 2000 until 2007 was the leading advocate of recycled water during the 2006 referendum on building a new plant to support the city’s dwindling dam levels.

A majority of residents said they would be prepared to embrace recycled water in various capacities, from using it on gardens and lawns to human consumption.

An online poll of more than 100 people also voted 80-20 in favour of introducing recycled water into the region’s drinking supply.

“There would be no water troubles in Toowoomba if we had have. Shows lack of foresight and ignorance on the people of Toowoomba,” Glendon Reimers wrote.

“Should have done years ago. It would of happened except for the scaremongering,” Daniel Ross said.

“Recycled water would be ideal for keeping gardens, lawns and plants alive during this drought,” Peter Slacksmith added.

Ms Thorley’s plan earned opposition from several major players in Toowoomba, most notably multi-millionaire property developer Clive Berghofer.