GMW’s Diversions Customer Committee represents our diversions and groundwater customers.
The 13 members of our Diversions Customer Committee will be able to raise issues and opportunities, and have input into a range of initiatives such as:
- The Diversions Cost Review (alongside the Customer Reference Committee)
- Scenario planning for GMW’s drought and climate action responses
- GMW’s Pricing Submission 2028-2032
- Telemetry programs
- DEECA’s (Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action) Groundwater Management 2030 Strategy
- Research into the future of water availability
- Improvements to GMW’s services and customer experience
- Meeting with other agencies such as DEECA, Agriculture Victoria and Catchment Management Authorities.
The Diversions Customer Committee will meet at least twice a year, as well as attending an annual summit.
Committee members
Kiewa / Mitta Mitta / Upper Murray
Stuart Crosthwaite
Dairy leader with 20+ years in irrigated farming, governance, and rural wellbeing. Offers strategic insight shaped by national leadership and industry collaboration.
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Peter Serpell
Chair of the Kiewa, Mitta Mitta & Upper Murray Committee since 1999. Lifelong irrigator with a passion for learning, project experience, and extensive networks across northeast Victoria.
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Jason Reid
Member of the Kiewa, Mitta Mitta and Upper Murray Water Services Committee for more than 20 years. Unregulated diverter on the Kiewa River main stem.
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Ovens / King / Mid Murray
David Lawrence
Former Environmental Advisor and Coastal Planner with expertise in ecology and environmental law. Well-established connections, technical understanding, and a commitment to water quality.
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Evan Ryan
Cropping farmer and agronomist with in-depth understanding of water policy, infrastructure, and local
markets. Brings innovation through advanced irrigation technology and data systems.
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Peter Antonello
Brings 45 years of mixed farming experience - focused on beef cattle, grapes, and chestnuts - and 20 years on the GMW Water Services Committee. Strongly committed to sustainable agriculture and ensuring future generations can continue working on the land.
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Goulburn Broken
Neil Renshaw
Experienced at setting up on-farm solar power systems along with irrigation pumping facilities. Member of the Broken River Study Group, followed by the Broken River Reconfiguration Committee. Established a community water supply scheme and continues to expand its membership with the current committee.
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David Elford
Benalla-based third-generation farmer and community leader with rural awareness, water expertise, and 20+ years as an Accredited Specialist Water Valuer.
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Simon Rouget
Major cherry grower with broad experience using channels, bores, and farm dams across Victoria. Offers strong grower networks and practical insight to water use.
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Catherine Birchall
Experienced in financial services, business partnerships, and stakeholder engagement, with expertise in communication, advocacy, and developing inclusive financial wellbeing programs to support and represent diverse community needs.
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Loddon Campaspe
Angus Parry
A progressive young farmer with hands-on experience across surface, channel, and groundwater systems. Shares grounded perspective into irrigation efficiency, development, and community engagement.
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Prue Milgate
Experienced agricultural leader and water policy advisor with strong governance credentials. Brings substantial knowledge of irrigation, community engagement, and strategic planning across the GMID, with a passion for building a sustainable agricultural industry.
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Richard Carter
Deputy Chair of the previous Loddon Campaspe Regional Water Services Committee. Represents diverse range of customer enterprises in the Loddon and Campaspe River areas with decades of experience in water.
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* Due to an administrative error, a member was appointed to the committee in the wrong district. Given the high number and quality of applicants, an additional member was appointed to ensure all districts have at least three representatives.