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Lake Narracan 5 Knot Restriction Lifted

Waters skiers and boating enthusiasts can once again enjoy recreational activities at Lake Narracan, following the lifting of the 5 Knot speed restriction on the lake after recent rain.

By Latrobe City Council - 8th October 2009 - Back to News

Substantial rainfall in the Lake Narracan catchment area has improved the lake’s water to 86 per cent.

Latrobe City deputy mayor, Cr Kellie O’Callaghan, said the lifting of restrictions puts Lake Narracan back on the agenda for those who enjoy water sports, whether they are locals, or travel to Latrobe City for their holidays from other areas.

Latrobe City’s manager recreational liveability, Jamey Mullen, said that over the past two years, changes to the operating procedures for the lake have been implemented by Southern Rural Water in order to meet demand by the power industry for water allocation, in a time of very low rainfall.

"This has seen Lake Narracan waters subject to significant changes in level, often over a short space of time," Mr Mullen said.

"While levels now permit the restrictions to be lifted, the water levels will be continually monitored over summer to ensure the waterway speed zones are appropriate to ensure safe boating.

"In the event that the capacity of Lake Narracan again falls below 50%, the 5 knot speed restriction will be reimposed in the interests of public safety," Mr Mullen explained.

Cr O’Callaghan said that while news over the lifting of restrictions was welcome, users should be advised that this is only temporary relief.

"Lake Narracan water levels will continue to fluctuate depending on rainfall until a permanent arrangement to protect the lake’s water level for recreational use is resolved.

"Whilst we are pleased that the lake is open again, council will be continuing to lobby the state government in an effort to obtain more reliable access to water for Lake Narracan for community use.

"A formal response was recently provided by council to the state government as part of the Gippsland Sustainable Water Strategy currently being developed.

"In its response, council reaffirmed its commitment to work with other industries and agencies to gain an allocation which would ensure that Lake Narracan water levels are maintained at levels appropriate for recreational use," Cr O’Callaghan said.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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