Water self-sufficiency on Phillip Island

The town water provided on Phillip Island contains at least 10 different chemicals because the catchment comprises dairy country where cow manure and the effluent from dairies drains into the reservoir.

For this reason, we've chosen to install a 25,000 L tank which collects rainwater from the house and shed roofs. With an annual rainfall of around 28 inches (700ml) we've never run out of water; in fact, we've never fallen below the half-way level. Because of this, I indulge myself with long showers and never skimp in my use of water. But we don't waste water either, nor do we use it in the garden. Our garden is planted with native trees and hardy shrubs that don't need watering.

We have a water filter attached to a tap in the kitchen to eliminate any of the 'nasties' that could come from the roof, and we usually boil the water as well. The idea of being self-sufficient in water appeals to me.

On the other hand, I enjoy the artesian water we drink and shower in while living in Mitchell. I believe the mineral content is very beneficial, health-wise.

PS

Apologies about The Dish photo. I got the numbers mixed and don't know how to delete.

Clean air and clean water in outback Queensland

When we were selecting a place to live in Queensland, the quality of the air and water was paramount. The small outback town of Mitchell was our choice because the town is surrounded by a sea of semi-arid cattle country. As a result, the air is dry and clean of pollution.

The town has a reticulated water supply, providing plentiful water from the Great Artesian Basin -- one of the world's largest underground water supplies.

Mitchell has two bores, with the depth of each approximately 1000 m (1 km). The water temperature averages between 30 to 50°C . The water tower's main function is to give water pressure to the town -- but it also allows the water to cool.

Mitchell's water is soft and has a unique mineral content that includes bicarbonate, sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium. It has a pleasant taste and practically no smell -- and is wonderful in a bath or shower.

The town has an attractive spa that is open to locals and travellers alike. Many people believe it cures muscular and bone ailments as well as providing a place to socialise and relax completely.

At this time of the year the cold water is warm. Throughout the hottest months people turn off their hot water services and use the hot water tank as a place to cool the water. So the hot water tap is used for cold water and the cold water tap for hot water.

I consider it a privilege to live in a place where clean air and clean untreated water are both in abundance.