Stay safe on the water this summer

Thursday, 5 December, 2019

This Water Safety Week, Strathbogie Shire Council reminds waterways users to play it safe on the water, especially during the summer period.

Locals and visitors to the Strathbogie Shire are fortunate to have beautiful waterways to enjoy during the summer period, especially the Lake Nagambie and Goulburn River waterways frequented by an influx of vessels in the warmer weather.

Strathbogie Shire Mayor Cr Amanda McClaren said Nagambie Lakes and Goulburn River provides a wonderful opportunity for boating, fishing and recreational enjoyment.

“We are so lucky to be able to enjoy the beautiful waterways in Nagambie, and we remind our users to remain vigilant with water safety and show consideration for other waterways users, especially during the busy period,” Cr McClaren said.

Strathbogie Shire Council, in conjunction with Goulburn Murray Water and Maritime Safety Victoria, is currently in the initial phase of a speed limit and zoning review of the Nagambie Lakes and Goulburn River waterways and will be out and about this summer to chat with users about current rules and ways to improve safety and recreational use of the waterways.

There will also be formal opportunities for the community to provide input into the waterways review and Council will provide updates as these opportunities become available.

Maritime rules apply to all forms of recreational use on the water including boating, jetskis, swimming, canoeing and fishing.

Council will work closely with Transport Safety Victoria (MSV) and Water Police to patrol the waterways and address any anti-social behaviour, with fines issued to users who fail to comply with regulations.

Council urges anyone with urgent concerns about antisocial behaviour on or off the water to contact the Police on 000.

For more information about waterways safety, visit transportsafety.vic.gov.au/maritime-safety, or call Transport Safety Victoria on 1800 223 022 and follow the prompts for maritime safety.