21 December 2022
A new water security outlook published by Goulburn Valley Water shows that the region’s water storages are in a good position heading into 2023.
The 2022 Annual Water Outlook, issued in December, shows the outlook for the next two years is secure in the short term, despite an overall warming and drying climate.
Across all main supply systems, there is only a rare or very rare likelihood of water restrictions being introduced.
Goulburn Valley Water Managing Director Steve Capewell said following several wetter-than-average winters, storage levels had increased, particularly with late winter and spring rains this year.
“We’re seeing our off-river storages in the Euroa district sitting at 100 per cent capacity and the Kilmore system sitting around 90 per cent, which is fantastic news considering three years ago we had to implement water restrictions in both regions following low rainfall inflows and drought-like conditions,” Dr Capewell said.
“However, climate projections show that we are more likely to experience declining water availability and more frequent and severe droughts in the future as a result of climate change.
“Our outlook shows we can expect a generally drying climate, but we’re investing in our infrastructure and forward planning to ensure we can continue to supply our services sustainably amid population growth and demand trends.”
The outlook reflects on the recently released 2022 Urban Water Strategy, which outlines key actions and improvements to ensure the security of water supplies for the next 50 years.
Major projects highlighted by the strategy include new opportunities for recycled water use, supporting water efficiency initiatives, completing upgrades at our treatment plants to cater for future growth and exploring options to secure the long-term water supply.
While storage levels remain high, people are encouraged to still follow the Permanent Water Saving Rules to ensure water use remains sustainable into the future and minimise water wastage.
They include using automatic watering systems or sprinklers between 6pm and 10am, using a broom to clean hard surfaces, washing your car with a bucket and using a leak-free hose fitted with a trigger nozzle.
You can find updated storage information on our Water Resources page, along with a copy of the full outlook.