Media Release: FREE SHOWERHEADS AT BLACKBURN NORTH

FROM THE MINISTER FOR WATER

DATE: Wednesday, October 25, 2006

FREE SHOWERHEADS AT BLACKBURN NORTH

Water Minister John Thwaites today urged Melburnians to take advantage of the Bracks Government’s free showerhead program, to save water and money on their household bills.

Speaking at North Blackburn Shopping Centre with the Member for Mitcham, Tony Robinson, Mr Thwaites said the three-star showerheads should be fitted in place of older, less efficient models.

“Three star showerheads help households save water, cut greenhouse gas emissions and save on water and energy bills,” Mr Thwaites said.

Mr Robinson said efficient showerheads could save households up to $60 a year on water and energy bills.

“Showerheads are one of the cheapest and most effective ways to cut household water use – with each shower rose saving up to 20,000 litres per year,” Mr Robinson said.

“This is about the same amount as a small rain water tank – the program will make a great contribution to water saving with 180,000 showerheads available over the next three years.”

Mr Thwaites also urged Melburnians to take advantage of the Government’s rebate scheme.

“People purchasing water saving products such as mulch and trigger nozzles can claim a rebate off their water bill,” Mr Thwaites said.

“Melburnians have done a great job conserving water, this is another chance for them to save water and save on their household bills.”

Mr Thwaites said the showerhead initiative would be rolled out across the State with the potential to save about two billion litres of water per year across Victoria.

The Bracks Government in cooperation with water authorities will distribute, mainly through exchanges for old showerheads, new efficient showerheads through a range of programs as part of the $6.5 million initiative.

The showerhead program builds on other Bracks Government saving measures including the introduction of Permanent Water Saving Rules and the Water Smart Gardens and Homes rebate program which has seen Victorians claim over 138,000 rebates on water saving products.

Yarra Valley Water is encouraging customers in their service area to register online for the showerhead program at www.yvw.com.au or ring 131 721.