Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) manages lakes, dams, reservoirs, irrigation channels, weirs and regulators across northern Victoria. These waterways support recreation and water delivery, but they can also be unpredictable and dangerous.
No matter how familiar a place may seem, conditions can change quickly. Knowing the risks and making safe choices helps protect you, your family and your community.
Different waterways, different risks
Each type of waterway has its own hazards. What’s safe in one location may be extremely dangerous in another.
Before visiting any waterway:
- Know where you are and what type of waterway it is
- Understand the risks specific to that environment
- Follow all warning signs and safety advice
Play it safe around all waterways
Irrigation channels are not safe for swimming
Irrigation channels are not designed for recreation and are extremely dangerous.
They may look calm, but conditions can change quickly and hazards are often hidden.
- Strong undercurrents can pull people under
- Pipes, drains and outlet structures create serious risks
- Water depth varies and banks can be steep and slippery
Do not swim, jump or play in irrigation channels.
Channels are dangerous for both people and pets.
Choose safer alternatives such as public swimming pools or designated recreational areas.
Wear a lifejacket
Lifejackets save lives.
- Wear a lifejacket when boating, kayaking or using watercraft
- Lifejackets are required by law in many situations
- Make sure lifejackets fit properly and are in good condition
Operate safely on the water
Safe behaviour on the water helps prevent accidents.
- Travel at safe speeds and keep a proper lookout
- Slow down near shorelines, structures and other users
- Avoid sudden manoeuvres and risky behaviour
Check conditions before you go
Water and weather conditions can change without warning.
- Check weather forecasts and water levels before heading out
- Be prepared for wind, changing visibility and cold water
- Turn back if conditions become unsafe
Alcohol and water don’t mix
Alcohol increases the risk of accidents on and around the water.
- Alcohol impairs judgement, balance and reaction time
- Avoid alcohol when boating, fishing or taking part in water activities
Be aware of hidden hazards
Many dangers are not visible from the surface.
- Submerged rocks, snags and debris
- Sudden changes in depth
- Slippery banks and unstable edges
Never dive into dams, lakes, reservoirs or channels. Diving from structures or ledges can result in serious injury or death.
Keep children within arm’s reach
Children can get into trouble around water very quickly.
- Actively supervise children at all times
- Keep children within arm’s reach near water
- Avoid distractions such as phones or conversations
Stay clear of weirs and regulators
Weirs and regulators are essential water infrastructure and pose serious risks to swimmers, paddlers and boaters.
Play it safe — stay well clear of weirs and regulators
- Strong underwater currents can trap people and vessels
- Sudden changes in water flow can occur without warning
- Kayaks and boats can be pulled towards structures
Never jump or dive from dam walls or ledges
Jumping or diving from dam walls, ledges or elevated structures is extremely dangerous.
In recent years, Goulburn-Murray Water staff have observed people diving into the water from dam walls and other high points during the summer period. This behaviour puts lives at serious risk.
- Water depth can change suddenly
- Rocks, debris and infrastructure may be hidden below the surface
- Cold water shock can affect even strong swimmers
Never jump or dive from dam walls, ledges or structures.
What may look safe from above can result in serious injury or death.
Play it safe.
Before visiting any GMW waterway:
- Know the type of waterway you’re visiting
- Understand the risks
- Follow safety signage and advice
Making informed choices helps keep everyone safe around water.