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We want children, families and members of our community to stay safe around irrigation channels in the Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) district. When the weather is hot many people look for a place to swim, but channels are not the place to cool off.
Swimming in channels is dangerous because they pose a range of hidden risks.
The message is simple – Don’t Swim in Channels. While a channel might look still and calm, there could be:
- Strong undercurrents
- Hidden pipes
- Weeds and debris
- Varying depths
- Regulator gates that can open and close quickly
- Drains
- Submerged trees, sandbars and rocks
Channels also pose a danger to pets. They can get tangled in weeds or tree branches. Never allow your pet to swim in a channel.
The Royal Life Saving National Drowning Report 2017 helps to provide context around why it is never a good idea to swim in channels.
Where can I swim?
When the weather is hot, we encourage families and community members to swim at a supervised location like your local public swimming pool.
Check with your local council for pool information and opening hours during summer.
- Information on Tatura Swimming Complex, Merrigum Swimming Pool, Mooroopna War Memorial Pool and Murchison Swimming Pool
- Information on Aquamoves (Shepparton)
- Information on Colbinabbin Pool, Echuca War Memorial Aquatic Centre, Lockington Pool, Rushworth Pool, Tongala Pool, Kyabram Pool, Rochester Pool and Stanhope Pool
- Information on swimming pools at Boort, Inglewood, Mitiamo, Pyramid Hill and Wedderburn
- Information on swimming pools at Yarrawonga, Cobram, Numurkah, Nathalia and Strathmerton
More information
If you have any questions or require more information about Goulburn-Murray Water’s channel safety campaign, please email communications@gmwater.com.au