Play it safe on the water this public holiday

Thursday 21 January, 2021

Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is urging anyone planning to visit lakes, dams or reservoirs on one of the busiest days and weekends of the year to play it safe on the water.

GMW’s water storages are a popular destination for thousands of water users, with the public holiday and long weekend for some attracting big crowds to recreation areas.

Anyone planning on visiting GMW storages over this time can find comprehensive guides on what is allowed and what is prohibited at each storage at www.gmwater.com.au/recreation

Water levels can also be checked at www.gmwater.com.au/storagelevels

Summer will also look a bit different due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic – visitors to GMW storages must maintain physical distancing from anyone they don’t live with, must carry a mask, and must practice good hygiene.

Signage at key areas around GMW storages will provide guidance, and boat operators are asked to not set up their day operations next to boat ramps.

“Victorians are fortunate to be able to enjoy a COVID Safe summer this year, so we’re asking visitors to all storages to pay attention to a few basic guidelines,” GMW General Manager Water Storage Services Martina Cusack said.

“Keep up-to-date with the most recent COVID advice issued by the Victorian Government and plan your visit accordingly. If a recreational area is too crowded, consider moving to another space.”

Visitors to GMW water storages are also asked to adhere to basic safety rules, including always wearing personal flotation devices, looking out for hazards and other users at all times, and boating to suit local conditions.

“We want everyone to be able to go home safely when they’ve visited one of our storages – it’s up to all of us to be safe and responsible around water,” Ms Cusack said.

A number of blue-green algae warnings remain current for GMW storages. Avoid contact with the water in these storages.

Keep up to date with the latest warnings and alerts at www.g-mwater.com.au/news/bga

GMW also reminds visitors: 

  • It is prohibited to camp on the lake bed below the high water mark, regardless of the water level.
  • Campfires are prohibited in GMW recreation areas, foreshore and lakebed areas. Electric barbecues are available at some recreation areas.
  • No rubbish services are available in GMW-managed recreation areas and foreshore areas, please take rubbish home and dispose of appropriately. Remember GMW has a ‘carry-in carry-out’ policy when it comes to rubbish.
  • Penalties apply for illegal dumping of rubbish.
  • Please keep the waterway healthy by not using soap, toothpaste or detergent in the lake.
  • Unsafe and unlawful behaviour can be reported to GMW 1800 064 184. All information will be treated in confidence.
  • In an emergency, ring 000 for help.
  • A copy of GMW’s recreational bylaws can be found at www.gmwater.com.au/recreation

For safety, boaters should always:

  • Wear a lifejacket
  • Observe water levels and the potential for submerged hazards – if in doubt, slow to five knots or less.
  • Seek out local knowledge on conditions and hazards;
  • Maintain a good lookout;
  • Ensure the motor kill switch is attached to the driver;
  • Take note of signage at boat ramps;
  • Ensure the vessel is equipped with the required safety equipment and that it is in good working condition and easily accessible;
  • Remember alcohol and water don’t mix. Don’t drink on the water, and;
  • Do not overload the vessel.

More information about water safety can be found at www.gmwater.com.au/watersmarts

For more information on boating safety, go to https://transportsafety.vic.gov.au/maritime-safety

For more information about recreation at GMW storages, or to obtain a storage boating guide, go to www.gmwater.com.au/recreation