We carry a spare tyre in the car in case the unexpected and unpredictable happens.
Byron Council needs to consider the unexpected, a backup plan, of a second, historically-reliable water supply, they have only considered the cost per litre and regulatory approvals.
We see what happens when a single oil supply from the Strait of Hormuz is cut, it would be just as bad if a single water supply was cut.
Resilience means multiple sources, so that if one source fails there’s a backup: what they call a hybrid system.
Of course, domestic rainwater tanks should be subsidised, they’re part of a resilient system.
It’s worth paying extra to have a more robust and reliable system.
Even if the cost of water from Lavertys Gap was two or three times the price per litre of Rous water, it would still be worth it, to have a more resilient supply.
Add a bit of local hydro power and it could cover the maintenance costs. Well done the councillors who support this effort.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
