As a result, Water Restriction Levels were in place across the entire shire for a total of 305 days. Level 3 was the highest level, and was in place for 85 days.

The Macleay River ceased flowing for 66 days before flows re-commenced on January 12 this year.

At our May meeting, council received a report that outlined our response to the drought conditions.

I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge the efforts of council's Water and Sewer team, led by Wes Trotter, for their proactive management of the Kempsey Shire's water supply during that time. Quite simply, they were instrumental in our ability to manage the drought.

Steuart McIntyre Dam provides 2220 megalitres of usable water, and while at times drought and algal conditions can affect the water quality, the skill of our team ensured its quality was maintained, proving critical to our ability to provide water supply even at the toughest times.

It is clear that the Water and Sewer team were also critical during our bushfire response.

When water supply was under extreme pressure due to the drought and the unfolding bushfire event, a coordinated effort ensured water remained available at Willawarrin, Bellbrook and Thungutti, which was critical for the RFS.

I would also like to thank the Communications team who worked in collaboration with the Water and Sewer team with respect to getting the message out there to our community.

It is appropriate that I pay tribute to director Robert Fish and the entire executive team for the way they led the organisation through the drought.

Collaboration with the NSW Government has also yielded much-needed investment in council's water infrastructure. And of course important new lessons have been learned.

This will only continue to ensure we can better manage and secure our water supply for years to come.

Finally, I would like to again, thank you. Our community made the difference by taking the steps needed to conserve water. Let's ensure we maintain these essential water-saving habits.

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