G-MW urges respect and safety at lakes this long weekend

By Kate Walters

Jan 21, 2025

Goulburn-Murray Water is reminding visitors to its storage sites to follow the rules. This includes not attempting to secure a spot by leaving a temporary structure such as a gazebo. Photo by Supplied

This long weekend, Goulburn-Murray Water is calling on people to be respectful of each other and the environment as they enjoy lakes, dams and reservoirs in the region.

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For those visiting G-MW’s storages, officials are asking people to be courteous and follow the rules.

“It’s been great seeing so many people enjoying our storages during the warmer months,” G-MW Water Storage Services general manager Leonie Bourke said.

Ms Bourke said most people had conducted themselves well during the busy summer period, but there were some behaviours that needed to stop.

“(The storages) are fantastic places to visit, but it is important that everyone plays their part to ensure they remain this way,” she said.

“We have had quite a few incidents at our storages of 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.”

According to G-MW, leaving temporary structures unattended on the foreshore is an offence that can result in a hefty fine of up to almost $2000.

Lighting campfires outside designated areas is also an offence.

Campfires are not permitted at most G-MW storages, and only in certain areas at sites where they are permitted.

“Fire safety is particularly crucial at this time of year,” Ms Bourke 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.”

According to the corporation, more than 75,000 people visited G-MW’s lakes, dams and reservoirs over the long weekend last year.

Over such a busy period, Ms Bourke said it was crucial to protect the health of the water in the storages, and the surrounding land.

GMW will have officers on patrol throughout the weekend to ensure people are acting safely and responsibly.

Ms Bourke is urging visitors to make safety a top priority, avoid camping or lighting campfires outside permitted areas, and take rubbish with them when they leave.

Regulations can be found here: tinyurl.com/yahwsrty

People can report a breach by calling 1800 013 357 or emailing compliance@gmwater.com.au