The Murray–Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) is reminding river users to check conditions and advised communities downstream of Hume Dam that the river may be lower than in recent years over Easter.
Corowa locals and visitors have expressed disappointment and frustration over the dismal water height of the Murray River during the Christmas and New Year period, causing significant disruptions to recreational water activities.
Boats have been hitting logs and sandbars, posing dangers to both residents and tourists alike.
Federation Council Deputy Mayor Shaun Whitechurch has taken a leading role in addressing the issue, engaging with various communities, including those downstream.
Cr Whitechurch has been advocating for a better understanding with water management authorities during tourism periods to protect the local economies.
But for MDBA it appears to be all about water supply not tourism. Senior Director of River Operations Tom Zouch said the high storage volume in Lake Victoria and water available in the Menindee Lakes at this time of year, means less water is required from Hume Dam to supply water all the way to South Australia.
“Our primary focus is to supply this seasons’ demand while making sure we're optimising water availability for future seasons,” Mr Zouch said.
“That means while there should be reasonable flow in the river, levels will be lower than recent year's over Easter.
"Easter is an important time for local businesses, with peaks in tourism and recreational activities taking place right across the Basin however, we cannot guarantee river levels. We encourage river users to stay abreast of forecast river levels and plan their activities accordingly.
"Recreational activities that require deeper water such as boating can take advantage of weir pools along the river where suitable.
"It's important to remember that river levels can change and may not be the same as the last time people visited the river. It's a reminder to all of us to always consider safety when using our rivers,” Mr Zouch said.
Cr Whitechurch has described the issue as a matter of urgency.
“This has been an ongoing issue for this shire and a lot of the shires between Lake Hume and Mulwala and even further downstream,” he said.
Cr Whitechurch also highlighted the danger in the river when the water is low.
“Speedboats, jet skis, and even the local rowing club have had issues,” he said.
“Rowers have had oars hit the bottom or logs with the river being only 1.4m deep.”
To check river levels and forecasts visit the MDBA's River Murray data site. Updates on expected Easter flows will be provided through the River Murray Weekly Report.
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