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Advocacy sparks change in iconic Nagambie waterways

By Contributed

Apr 2, 2025

State Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad, Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell and state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland at Lake Nagambie. Photo by Contributed

Crucial safety upgrades are set to be implemented along the Goulburn River and Lake Nagambie.

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Following community concerns about inadequate signage and unclear speed zones, state Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland raised the issue with Outdoor Recreation Minister Steve Dimopoulos and Safe Transport Victoria.

“The message from the community was loud and clear — locals and visitors felt unsafe due to inadequate ski zone signage and confusing waterway rules,” Ms Cleeland said.

“This is one of the busiest and most beautiful waterways in regional Victoria, especially during peak periods like the Heads of the River Regatta — and yet there have been basic safety gaps that were impossible to ignore.”

The need for immediate action became apparent during the recent regatta when water police had to be stationed on site to manage risks due to unclear signage.

“When you have water police needing to step in just to keep things under control, it highlights how urgently we need proper rules, clear markers and co-ordinated governance in place,” Ms Cleeland said.

The planned improvements include relocating and improving key signage and navigational aids, conducting a full review of waterway rules, and strengthening collaboration with local user groups, tourism operators and law enforcement bodies.

“Whether you’re skiing, fishing, rowing or swimming, everyone deserves to feel safe,” Ms Cleeland said.