Review of Barwon River Waterway Rules Is Underway

GEELONG locals may soon be able to access the lower levels of the Barwon River for the first time in 32 years, following an ongoing review of the river’s waterway rules.

The Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CCMA) is currently re-assessing its Barwon River waterway rules stretching from Orana Road in Geelong to the Lower Breakwater (just upstream of Lake Connewarre).

CCMA has recently identified a need for a review following Barwon Water’s planned removal of four spans of the Ovoid Sewer Aqueduct in Breakwater.

Existing river rules from CCMA have not been reviewed since 1991 and the lower part of the river has previously been an exclusion zone for safety reasons.

CCMA say the potential of renewed access to the lower river has given them the opportunity to make necessary changes towards enhancing safety, environment and recreational activities for Geelong’s booming population.

CCMA General Manager Community and Catchment Services, Sarah Holland Clift said targeted consultation is currently underway, with further meeting scheduled with user groups.

“The aim of any rule change is to foster greater inclusivity and safety for all on-water users, enabling a broader range of individuals to enjoy the Barwon River.

“Through the public consultation process, we aim to consider the perspectives of all river users and establish new rules that accommodate a wide range of recreational activities.”

The CCMA is currently in consultation with key agencies including the Geelong Water Ski Club, Geelong Canoe Club, Association of Geelong and District Angling Clubs Inc, Barwon Valley Water Ski Club and many more.

After the consultation period, the draft river rules will be publicly displayed for four weeks to gather feedback from the community.

No decisions about the rules, including the times stakeholders have access to the river, will be made while consultation is underway and until the public has provided feedback.