Ageing asset challenges and the risk of more frequent and intense events into the future, along with the substantial costs that would be associated with a complete asset upgrade, mean the ongoing management of Loch Garry as an asset and a service must be determined.

The Future Service Strategy will include:

  • A flood study developed in conjunction with Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority (GBCMA).
  • Infrastructure and service options available for the future of the Loch and how GMW would manage this at a strategic and operational level.
  • Impacts of climate change and increased flood protection upstream of the Loch.
  • Current price structure and testing the sustainability of any proposed price modelling into the future.
  • Broader benefit of the Loch to other communities and how the costs and benefits can be recognised and shared with the broader beneficiaries.
  • Consultation with customers and stakeholders, via a Community Reference Group, and broader engagement about what a sustainable model may look like, the financial impacts and options around the future of the Loch.

Have your say on the future of Loch Garry’s flood infrastructure

The Loch Garry flood regulator near Bunbartha is over 100 years old and is expected to reach the end of its lifespan within the next two decades. GMW has been working with a community-based committee to develop five future service options for the Loch Garry Flood Protection District.

Extensive flood modelling has informed the development of the five scenarios, each showing how changes to the service and landscape could affect flood behaviour during minor and moderate floods. Feedback from customers, community members and stakeholders will help shape the future of flood protection in the Loch Garry district.

Click on the five options below to read more information about the options, and see minor, moderate and major flood map images.

Future service options

  • Option 1: Base case

    Leave the existing Loch Garry regulator as is, using the current operating rules.

    Learn more 

  • Option 1C: Base case plus regulator upgrade

    Upgrade the regulator, clarify ownership of all levees in the Lower Goulburn section, use the current operating rules.

    Learn more 

  • Option 2A: Fairer distribution of water

    Install additional structures to release more flood water to the south, reducing pressure on levees.

    Learn more 

  • Option 3: Gradual return to natural flows

    Removal of flow control structures and sufficient levees to return the area to natural flow conditions.

    Learn more 

  • Option 3A: Permanently open the regulator

    Change the existing flood regulator to remain open, allowing flood water to pass through as levels rise.

    Learn more 

How to give your feedback

There are a number of options available to tell us your thoughts on the future options for Loch Garry.

Drop-in sessions

We’re holding four in-person drop-in sessions across the region, as well as two online sessions. At these sessions, you can learn more about the options above and what they mean for you, and discuss your feedback with us.

  • Nathalia - 1pm to 3pm, Tuesday 19 August
    Nathalia Sports and Community Centre, 42 Robertson St, Nathalia
  • Undera - 1pm to 3pm, Thursday 21 August
    Undera Park Recreation Reserve, 1915 Echuca Rd, Undera
  • Nathalia - 1pm to 3pm, Tuesday 26 August
    Nathalia Sports and Community Centre, 42 Robertson St, Nathalia
  • Wyuna - 1pm to 3pm, Thursday 28 August
    Wyuna Memorial Hall, 20 Alfred Rd, Wyuna

Online sessions will be held in early September. The link to join these sessions will be added closer to September on this website.

Fill out our survey

You can provide your feedback via the survey below. If you are unable to complete the survey online, please call us on 1800 013 357 to discuss your needs.

Make an appointment

If can't attend our drop-in sessions, or would prefer to provide your feedback on the future service arrangements for Loch Garry via a one-on-one conversation, please complete the below form and a GMW staff member will contact you.