The Coliban River downstream of Malmsbury Reservoir will receive a much-needed flow this week in a joint effort of the North Central Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and Coliban Water.

“This latest release of water for the river follows on from an earlier release in February, which was cut short to prevent the transport of fire debris after the Coliban River channel was burnt by the Redesdale bushfires,” said North Central CMA Chief Executive Officer, Damian Wells.

“Since then, the Coliban River has continued to dry out and an environmental flow is now needed to fill the river’s pools and improve water quality for the plant and animal life in and along the river.

“Everyone is feeling the effects of an ongoing lack of water in our region, so while these dry conditions continue, we keep working hard to support the Coliban River with the small amount of water available to the environment,” said Mr Wells.

As the region’s lead agency in environmental water management, the North Central CMA is pleased to continue to work with Coliban Water in providing environmental flows to the Coliban River.

Coliban Water Managing Director, Gavin Hanlon, stated that maintaining the health of river systems with environmental water is essential for the quality of water supplies long term.

“Coliban Water and the North Central CMA continue to work together in planning for water security and river health,” said Mr Hanlon. “We have obtained independent scientific advice to help us plan and manage protection of the Coliban River’s environment.” 

Passing flows to the Coliban River were ceased over two years ago due to the drought through a temporary Qualification of Rights process. This changed water sharing arrangements to secure additional water for towns in the Coliban system and established a reserve of water to manage risks to the river’s environmental values.

The North Central CMA and Coliban Water will continue to work together to ensure that common interests including water security, water availability and the protection of river environments are maximised in the current drought conditions.

The North Central CMA works with the community to protect and improve rivers and the natural environment in North Central Victoria, while Coliban Water is an urban water corporation that manages, maintains and operates over 50 reservoirs and water storage basins across the region.

For further information please contact: 

Communications Officer, North Central CMA
PO Box 18, Huntly VIC 3551
t: 03 5448 7124
e: info@nccma.vic.gov.au