The last time Paroo saw such water in its dams and green grass across its landscape, Campbell Newman was premier of Queensland and Labor was reduced to the size of a water polo team in parliament.

This week, an early Christmas present arrives for the region when it emerges from almost a decade of dust and has its drought status revoked for the first time since 2013.

The rest of Queensland continues to share in the good news, with just over 38 per cent of the State now drought declared, a far cry from the peak of the dry when more than two-thirds of Queensland was officially parched.

Agriculture Minister Mark Furner said ongoing average to well-above-average rainfall since the start of the year had led to the Paroo Local Drought Committees (LDC) recommending Paroo’s change in status.

“Over the past six months there has been green flush and excellent herbage growth,” Furner said.

“LDCs in remaining drought declared areas are still monitoring pasture recovery as the wet season approaches.”

Queensland’s movement away from drought comes as parts of the State brace for more heavy rain and thunderstorms over coming days, with falls of more than 100 mm likely in some districts.