| A Meerlieu dairy farmer has pleaded guilty to taking and using water without authority.
John Vardy appeared before the Bairnsdale Magistrates Court on 17 March, charged with taking water without the consent of Southern Rural Water.
The court was told that the Mr Vardy has a groundwater licence for irrigation purposes. Meter readings taken during the 2008-2009 irrigation season showed that he had used more than his authorised licence volume.
Mr Vardy had applied for a transfer of water, but his application had not been approved as further technical work was required.
Mr Vardy pleaded guilty to the offence and without conviction was placed on a 12 month good behaviour bond and ordered to pay costs to Southern Rural Water of $4,000.
“This prosecution is a timely reminder for landowners that they must have a valid licence to take and use water, and that they must comply with their licence conditions at all times,” said Southern Rural Water’s Manager Groundwater and Rivers, Craig Parker.
“Licence holders need to continually check their meters to ensure they stay within their licensed volume.
“We rely on farmers to do the right thing so that we can protect water supply for everyone.”
Southern Rural Water encourages members of the public to report possible breaches of the Water Act for investigation.
For more information about water licences, please contact Southern Rural Water on 1300 139 510.
ENDS.
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