General News
2 January, 2026
Safety urged around water
Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is reminding people to stay safe and follow the rules when visiting its storages over the summer holidays.
GMW water storage services manager Jon McKeown said it was important that visitors remained water smart when visiting storages.
He said that included wearing a lifejacket and always having someone with you on a boat.
“Other matters to keep in mind include sticking to the speed limits on the water, not drinking and boating, and checking the conditions and water levels when launching boats,” he said.
“It’s also crucial that people are aware of hazards like submerged rocks and shallow water and that they don’t dive from dam walls or ledges.”
Visitors are also reminded to pay attention to safety signage at storages including boating safety information signs.
These signs are found at various locations around storages and display key information such as the speed limit in the area, what recreational activities are allowed there, and waterway rules.
They also display information around safely operating vessels, what equipment people are required to carry as a water vessel operator, as well as emergency contacts.
Mr McKeown said it was also important that people behaved well and were respectful of others and the environment when visiting GMW’s storages.
“Our storages are fantastic places to visit but it’s important that everyone plays their part to ensure they remain this way,” he said.
“During busy times we do see people looking to reserve inlets or parts of the foreshore for exclusive use by installing gazebos, inflatable pontoons and other structures before their visit.
“This is not permitted and isn’t fair on others who want to enjoy the area.”
Leaving temporary structures unattended on the foreshore is an offence that can result in a fine of up to 10 penalty units (a penalty unit is currently $203.51) under the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023.
Lighting campfires outside of designated areas is similarly an offence under the Water Regulations.
Campfires are not permitted at most GMW storages and are only allowed in certain areas at storages where they are permitted.
“Fire safety is particularly crucial at this time of year,” Mr McKeown said.
“People should check online to see if campfires are permitted where they plan to visit ahead of time and should never light a fire on a Total Fire Ban Day.”
Other activities GMW is looking out for over the summer holidays include people camping on lakebeds, and littering.
All visitors to GMW storages must take their rubbish with them when they leave.
People can view the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023 on the GMW website: www.gmwater.com.au/recreation
People can report a breach by contacting 1800 013 357 or emailing compliance@gmwater.com.au
More information about the risks and hazards to be aware of at storages can be found on the ‘Water Smarts’ page of the GMW website at www.gmwater.com/watersmarts