Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is Australia’s largest rural water corporation. We are responsible for managing 23 water storages under the Victorian Water Act (1989). These storages supply water for irrigation, and urban, rural and environmental use.

Of the 23 storages managed by GMW, 18 are determined recreational areas and provide benefits including:

  • access to recreational enjoyment on land and water
  • enhanced liveability, social connection, and health and wellbeing, and
  • creating opportunities for tourism and economic activity.

GMW has been working in consultation with Traditional Owners, local government authorities, catchment management authorities, partnering stakeholders, special interest groups, local community members and recreational visitors to develop the first 10 of 18 Recreational Area Management Plans.

The plans are public facing operational documents developed to support the day-to-day management of recreation areas in accordance with the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023.

Read on for a summary of what we heard throughout the consultation and to access the first 10 plans that have been finalised and published.


How feedback has been incorporated into the plans

Thank you to everyone that took the time to review and provide feedback. A number of key themes emerged from the engagement. Here's a summary of the key themes and how GMW has incorporated your feedback into the plans.


Feedback themeOutcome
Environmental protection was identified as a priority. Feedback raised concerns about litter, greywater discharge and residues from recreational activities. Respondents supported measures to protect native flora and fauna. Suggestions were also made for improved waste management, particularly during peak periods.GMW undertakes regular water-quality monitoring. We are currently investigating opportunities for improved land-based waste management over peak periods to support the safe enjoyment of recreational areas. People can report illegal dumping to the Environment Protection Authority by phoning 1300 372 842.
Although GMW does not have a direct role in the management of flora and fauna we actively support and partner with Traditional Owners, local catchment management authorities and the Victorian Fisheries Authority to deliver programs aimed at managing invasive species.
Cultural Heritage and Traditional Owner values were consistently highlighted. Respondents expressed interest in incorporating Traditional Owner values into the management of storages. GMW is committed to partnering with Traditional Owners to include cultural awareness and values in recreational area management. This may include signage, vegetation management, and other actions identified in consultation with local Traditional Owner groups.
GMW honours the principles of self-determination of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and is committed to working with recognised Aboriginal parties to review or update the plans at anytime.
Dogs and recreation were frequently mentioned. Many respondents noted the important role of dogs in family recreation, and specific recreational pursuits, highlighting concerns around lack of access to the water.GMW recognises the importance and value dogs play in the lives of our recreational users. The plans have been updated to permit dogs water access within public recreation areas at GMW managed storages, excluding prohibited/restricted access areas outlined within the set-aside areas table within each plan.
Pet owners are reminded to clean up after their dogs, be mindful of other recreational area users and ensure their dogs are under effective control at all times.
Stakeholders requested clarity on vehicle access below full supply levelsThe plans have been updated to provide greater clarity on vehicle access below full supply levels. Vehicles can access low-level boat ramps via existing formed tracks, with vehicle and trailer parking permitted around the boat ramp.
Any additional localised considerations have been specified within each individual plan.
Feedback indicated a need for clearer information around campfires and camping zones.Tables within the plans have been updated to clearly reflect localised conditions and stay limits as they apply. Examples of where camping is permitted include:
  • Greens Lake - above the full supply level (seven day stay limit)
  • Lake Dartmouth - in designated camping areas
  • Lake Hume - at Ludlows Reserve managed by council (24 hour stay limit) and
  • Lake Eildon - on Forrest Fire Management lands along the Delatite.
Camping is prohibited within all other GMW public recreation areas.
Campfires are only permitted in locations where designated infrastructure is provided and in line with CFA guidelines.
There are divergent views on hunting and duck shooting.

There were requests for clearer mapping of hunting zones and improved signage and education on regulations.

Hunting and duck shooting is included at storages where it is currently permitted as a lawful recreational activity. This approach aligns with Victorian State Government policy, which allows regulated hunting on designated public lands and water bodies.
The Game Management Authority set the associated guidelines and rules to ensure hunting is undertaken in a safe and sustainable way (which includes signage and education).

* Please note: Where appropriate, any storage-specific feedback has been updated within the individual plans.

Access to the first 10 completed plans is now available via the links below and on the GMW website:www.gmwater.com.au/recreation

The remaining eight draft plans will be released for review and feedback later in 2026.

Download a summary of key themes from the Engagement

Learn more about the key themes we heard from the engagement with community, recreational users, other key stakeholders.

The first 10 recreational area management plans have been completed and are now available on the GMW website along with new recreational area maps to download via the links below.

Water (Recreational Area) Regulations now in place

A Recreational Area Management Plan (RAMP) is a comprehensive document designed to manage and support the sustainable use and protection of water resources at a water storage that is used for recreation. Each plan includes existing operational arrangements in place in accordance with the Water (recreational area) regulations that came into effect from 2023.

Each RAMP includes detailed information on area management, public access rules, and permitted activities.

The objectives of the RAMPs are to:

  • protect the land, services and facilities in the area
  • protect and maintain water quality in waterways in the area
  • conserve and preserve flora, fauna and habitat in the area, including the biodiversity of that flora, fauna and habitat
  • protect the health and safety of visitors to the area
  • promote the enjoyment and recreation of visitors to the area
  • support the management, maintenance and regular review of any lease and licence that may be required by clubs, caravan parks and other appropriate organisations in the delivery of recreational facilities to the community
  • protect and promote Aboriginal cultural heritage and Aboriginal intangible heritage in the area
  • protect and promote any other heritage features in the area
  • facilitate the participation of Traditional Owner groups in the management of that area, including in accordance with any agreements under the Traditional Owner Settlement Act 2010 that apply to the area, and,
  • ensure that the area is managed and used in a way that respects and upholds the rights and aspirations of Traditional Owner groups who have a connection to the area.