The review of the future state of the Loch Garry flood regulator is progressing with continued emphasis on community involvement.
The Loch Garry Future Service Strategy Community Reference Group was formed in late 2023 by Goulburn-Murray Water to help determine the best outcome for Loch Garry going forwards.
The group is made up of Loch Garry Flood Protection customers, community members and stakeholders with local knowledge and experience.
They held their second meeting on April 23 at Bunbartha Community Centre, where discussions on infrastructure and service options for the Loch Garry flood regulator were on the agenda.
Later in the day, a community drop-in session was held for people wanting to share their thoughts and learn more about the flood regulator and the future of the Loch Garry Flood Protection Service.
There was information about:
- Loch Garry’s history and purpose.
- How Loch Garry was designed, its operation and the procedures that are followed.
- Loch Garry in the context of the environment around it.
- Maps of recent flood events.
- The condition of the asset and its future life expectancy.
Community reference group member John Pettigrew said both the meeting and the drop-in session had been productive.
“There is a good range of views represented in the reference group, and we’ve had some really open and robust discussions,” Mr Pettigrew said.
“It is crucial that the broader community are also able to have their say on the future of Loch Garry, so it was fantastic to see that the drop-in session was well-attended.”
Further community engagement opportunities will be announced as the review progresses.
G-MW Strategy and Services Planning general manager Steven Abbott said he looked forward to continuing working with the community.
“We’re grateful to everyone who took the time to visit our drop-in session and provide their feedback,” Mr Abbott said.
“The future of Loch Garry is a complex and important matter, so we want to ensure everyone has the chance to share their perspective.
“The information we hear at community events like this plays a big part in developing potential options for the future.”
In addition to consultation with community members and the reference group, the Future Service Strategy will also be informed by a flood study that is currently being undertaken by RMCG and Goulburn Broken Catchment Management Authority.
More information on the Future Service Strategy can be found on GMW’s YourSay page at: https://yoursay.gmwater.com.au/loch-garry-FSS