Big wet ends drought in most of Qld

(c)istockphoto.com/Jennifer Borton

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QUEENSLAND'S big wet has seen drought declarations lifted in 15 shires, with just 1.4 per cent of the state now drought declared.

It's a massive drop from the 35 per cent that was drought declared in 2009.

"Drought declared areas now only include parts of two local government areas - Banana Regional Council and Goodiwindi Regional Council - and all of the Toowoomba Regional Council," said Rural and Regional Queensland Minister Tim Mulherin.

"While these areas have experienced pasture growth from rainfall, there has not been enough rain to replenish water supplies to be confident of seeing livestock through to the next summer storm season.

"However, if the current forecasts for above average rainfall in these areas are realised in the next few months, we may yet see Queensland completely drought free."

Mr Mulherin said many communities that had been gripped by drought had seen record floods in recent months.

"They are now in the unusual position of managing both drought and flood recovery, but are looking forward to the long-term benefit of the rainfall and the billions of dollars it will inject into the Queensland economy," he said.

The local government areas that have had their drought status revoked are Bulloo, Paroo, Murweh, Rockhampton, Gladstone, Central Highlands, Barcoo, Boulia, Diamantina, Quilpie, Longreach, Western Downs, Maranoa, part of Banana, and part of Goondiwindi.