CHOWILLA CREEK

In reply to Mr WHETSTONE (Chaffey) (5 July 2011).

The Hon. P. CAICA (Colton—Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for the River Murray, Minister for Water): I am advised:

Due to increased water levels, work in Chowilla Creek became unsafe for contractors from the end of September 2010. Work continued on other areas of the site until the end of November when the whole site was closed and all plant and equipment removed. Now that winter rains have started it is unlikely that work will recommence before October 2011.

Although there is a State contribution to Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) operations, this is a federally funded project and the cost of flooding construction sites along the entire river system is being paid from an MDBA emergency fund. As a result there will be no impact on the State budget.