Visitors to Goulburn-Murray Water’s (GMW) lakes, dams and reservoirs over the September school holidays are being reminded to keep safe on the water and do the right thing.
With the Chief Health Officer’s COVID-19 restrictions easing in much of regional Victoria, GMW expects its waterways to be busy over the next two weeks and particularly the AFL grand final long weekend, from Friday, September 24.
“Nearly all our storages at very healthy levels, so there is plenty of water for everyone to enjoy whatever their recreational activity or pastime may be,” GMW Storage Services general manager Martina Cusack said.
“Be sure to stay safe at all times by following the rules for safe boating, including speed restrictions and keeping a lookout for submerged trees and other hazards.
“Staying safe also means continuing to follow the latest COVID-19 directions from the Chief Health Officer at www.dhhs.vic.gov.au/coronavirus.
We want all visitors to have fun and make the most of the warmer weather and we want them to return home safe.
Our Water Smarts campaign highlights the seven most common risks and hazards when boating and swimming at our water storages.
Seven most common risks and hazards when swimming and boating in water storages:
- Be throttle smart - stick to a safe speed
- Be jacket smart - wear your lifejacket
- Be mate smart – always take a mate
- Be conditions smart – check the weather and water levels
- Be alcohol smart – don’t drink on the water
- Be hazards smart - be aware of submerged rocks, sandbars, trees, shallow water and debris
- Be dive smart - never jump from dam walls or ledges.
Visitors are also urged to camp in the designated areas and respect the environment by picking up after themselves.
“GMW has a ‘carry-in carry-out’ policy, so please remember when leaving a GMW storage that you take with you any rubbish and leave the area as you found it,” Ms Cusack said.
Visitors are encouraged read our recreation guides and visit our recreation website to find out what activities are permitted so they can plan their trip accordingly.
View Recreation Guides
For information on boating safety in Victoria go to www.transportsafety.vic.gov.au