THE DUNSDALE WATER SCHEME.

Southern Cross, Volume 19, Issue 23, 16 September 1911, Page 9

THE DUNSDALE WATER SCHEME.

PROPOSAL REJECTED. Only some 1500 ratepayers took the trouble to vote oo the above proposal, out of a roll of 4359., One cannot help admiring the fair and impartial way in which the matter was place; 1 , lief ore the public by the Mayor (Mr Ott) and his colleagues, and now, that the expression of want of confidence in the scheme has been so clearly shown, we think the subject should, be all.owed to rest for a while. The indication of the wish of the suburban boroughs, with the exception of Gladstone, to go dry is significant, and probably the council would do well to leave things as they are until petitions for water come iron; these quarters. With the withdrawal of the railway supply about one-third more water will be available. This, with an extra well, should give sufficient water for household purposes, and if the statements marie by those opposed to the Hunsdale scheme are reliable, sufficient for sewage in the inner area should also be available.- Certainly new machinery should be put in, which would considerably reduce the cost of piping. The result of the poll was made known early. The Returning Officer (Mr T. W. Walker) was evidently not suffering from water on the brain, for his results were announced longbefore many were there to hear them. Mr Ott said the poll indicated favour of the pumping scheme, and they would direct their energies towards :'ncreasing the supply and extending the mains to the suburbs. The old generals —Messrs W. B. Scandrett and Jno. Kingsland, snr.. had their say. No doubt many of the voters placed their faith in the foresight of these gentlemen, who have considerable knowledge on the question. Mr Jas. Stewart, who is "out on his own" as a water expert, did not venture on a speech, but confined his lemarks to these words, "All is well." .. Mr I. L., Petrie worked hard during the day against the proposal, a-nd expressed satisfaction at the way the proposal had been thrown out.