Community input sought to secure Apollo Bay’s water supply

BARWON Water is calling for community input as it works to develop a long-term plan to ensure water security across the Apollo Bay region amid rising demand and climate-related challenges.

While the Apollo Bay water supply system is able to meet forecasted demand in the short-term, Barwon Water has confirmed action is required within the next decade to guarantee a reliable supply of water to the region in the longer-term.

Residents living in Apollo Bay and surrounding areas including Marengo and Skenes Creek are invited to share their local insights, priorities and concerns about the region’s water future by participating in a short online survey before Friday, March 21.

Seamus Butcher, Barwon Water’s general manager of planning, delivery and environment, said the organisation was committed to working with key stakeholders and the community to plan a sustainable and resilient future for the region.

“We’re encouraging people who wish to contribute to Apollo Bay’s water future to come and talk to us at one of our community pop-ups or to fill out our survey,” he said.

“The feedback will help us address key values that the community shares, and plan for long-term water security, affordability, climate resilience and a healthy environment.”

Already vulnerable to dry conditions through the summer and autumn months, Apollo Bay has experienced its third driest October to January period in 50 years, with water storage levels dropping below 55 per cent capacity.

During the same period last year, these storage levels were almost full.

Water storage levels, along with long-range weather forecasts, are being closely monitored by Barwon Water to determine if these extreme dry conditions are set to continue and if it is necessary to implement water restrictions.

Community consultation on the project will continue throughout the year and into 2026.

For more information, or to complete the survey, head to yoursay.barwonwater.vic.gov.au/apollo-bay-hub