Rewind 12 months ago and Burrendong Dam was almost dry.
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In just the first week of 2021, the Dam is sitting at over 40 per cent capacity compared to 1.47 per cent in January of 2020.
Burrendong Dam provides stock and irrigation to much of the Macquarie Valley while also being a popular recreational attraction, however increased rainfall in 2020 has increased the interest in visiting the area.
In years past, this is the most popular time to visit the dam whether it is for camping, fishing or skiing.
Lisa Vandyke from Reflections Holiday Parks admits that returning popularity has bought 'a real family atmosphere back to the Park'.
"We have seen an influx of Holiday Van Owners returning and using their sites," Ms Vandyke said
"We have seen an increase in both camping and cabin occupancy, with our cabins both at Burrendong and Mookerawa, being totally booked over the past two weeks."
According to statistics provided by the park, occupancy in October 2020 was a 40 per cent increase on the same time 12 months earlier.
Tony Webber from Water NSW admits that recent rain is 'welcome but has not done much to increase capacity'.
"We have had roughly 4000 megalitres (of water) enter the dam this year but it is not much compared to the northern parts of the state," Mr Webber said.
"The recent rain is always welcome as capacity levels had begun to steadily decrease since October (2020) when Burrendong (Dam) was at 46 per cent capacity,"
"Any rain is always welcome." Mr Webber added.
After much of Dubbo and Wellington welcomed over 10mm on Monday, the water capacity levels are looking likely to decline again with rain not being forecast until mid-January.
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