Water saving encouraged in Geelong

FURTHER pressure is being placed on the region’s water storages due to household use increasing dramatically by 25 per cent over the peak summer period.

The concering trend has sparked Barwon Water to encourage Geelong and Bellarine community members to be conscious of their water habits and to make every drop count.

Geelong’s water storages ended the 2025 calendar year at a 16-year-low, with the region continuing to be impacted by dry conditions.

The reservoirs which make up Geelong’s system closed the year at a combined capacity of 47.2 per cent – the lowest level seen since 2009.

The lowest amount of rainfall over a two-year period this century was recorded at 3 key areas – Bostock, West Barwon and Wurdee Boluc.

Despite the lack of rain, Barwon Water has stabilised storages by drawing from an interconnected network with multiple supply options, including the recently upgraded Melbourne to Geelong Pipeline and the Anglesea borefield.

Up to 60 per cent of Geelong’s peak demand can be met through the pipeline alone, which draws from the Melbourne water supply system.

Barwon Water acting managing director Mel Stephens said everyone has a role to play in saving water.

“Using water wisely and taking simple measures to save water around the home can help make a significant difference across the region.

“Simple actions like shorter showers, turning off taps while brushing teeth, and watering the garden in the cool of the day, can help save water.”

Water storages are currently at high levels across Barwon Water’s Lorne, Apollo Bay and Colac systems.

For more information on how to save water, head to barwonwater.vic.gov.au/water-and-waste/saving-water