Remembering SA's pain and battles behind the Murray-Darling Basin Plan

From our vantage point in South Australia, the Murray-Darling Basin Plan is not merely an environmental policy; it's a lifeline. The scars of the Millennium Drought, which brought our state to the brink of collapse, are still fresh in our memory. We recall the desolate lake beds, the struggling farms, and the constant anxiety over water security that defined those years. The Murray River is the lifeblood of South Australia, sustaining our cities, our towns, and our vital agricultural industries.

Our coverage has always emphasized the unique position of South Australia at the lower end of the basin, where we are most vulnerable to decisions made upstream and by the federal government. We've consistently highlighted the critical need for adequate environmental flows to ensure the health of the Lower Lakes, the Murray Mouth, and the Coorong, as well as the viability of our irrigation systems. The voices of our farmers, fruit growers, and fishers have always been central to our reporting, as they bear the brunt of any water crisis.

As the Murray-Darling Basin Plan faces review, it is imperative that we do not forget the lessons of the past. The sight of politicians touring the parched landscape in 2009, grappling with the allocation of precious water resources, serves as a potent reminder of what is at stake. The closing of public submissions today underscores the urgency of ensuring the plan remains effective and equitable, safeguarding the future of South Australia's water security.