The Yarragadee Aquifer System, for the moment, remains a reliable freshwater foundation for Western Australia’s Mid West. This deep aquifer supports the Geraldton-Dongara Regional Water Supply Scheme, delivering high-quality groundwater to Geraldton, Dongara, Port Denison and nearby areas via borefields such as Allanooka.
Monitoring confirms production-zone levels stable within normal ranges. Gradual drawdown from abstraction and reduced recharge continues, but levels stay well above critical thresholds. The aquifer’s confined, resilient nature ensures supply security for the foreseeable future.
Rainfall 2015–2025 has varied, with many winters below average, consistent with the south-west WA cool-season decline of 16 - 20% since the 1970s, which has accelerated recently. Lower recharge slows recovery.
Projections indicate gradual winter rainfall decline over the next decade, with higher temperatures increasing evaporation and demand. These trends are monitored and incorporated into planning for sustained reliability.
Greater Geraldton’s population is 47,000, projected to reach about 49,300 by 2046. Statewide migration supports Mid West economic activity and modestly raises residential and urban water demand.
Regional use is around 75 gigalitres per year, nearly all groundwater. Medium-growth scenarios forecast roughly 150 GL/year by 2050, driven by housing, agriculture and potential industrial or mining expansion. Some sub-areas have reached or exceeded sustainable limits since the mid-2010s, requiring careful management.
The supply-demand gap is addressed through a balanced strategy. Short- to medium-term security is assured for the Geraldton - Dongara scheme and towns. For longer-term growth, agencies pursue diversified, rainfall-independent sources.
Seawater desalination provides climate resilient coastal supply. Expanded wastewater recycling in Geraldton boosts non-potable reuse for irrigation and industry, conserving potable groundwater. Murchison upgrades enhance inland quality and reliability. Efficiency programs and targeted restrictions, backed by community support, optimise resources.