Southern Rural Water is pleased to be part of the Consultative Committee for the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy (SWS), which met for the first time this week in Ararat.
The new Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy is funded under the Victorian Government’s drought response package.
The SWS will work with local communities on long-term water sustainability and the management of water resources in the region for the next fifty years, in response to ongoing dry conditions, particularly in south-west Victoria.
Mark Wootton AO has been appointed as the Chair of the Consultative Committee, which will guide the development of the SWS.
Mr Wootton brings extensive leadership experience to the role, including serving as Chair of the Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority.
He owns and manages Jigsaw Farms, a carbon‑neutral grazing and agroforestry enterprise north of Hamilton.
“I’m honoured to be taking up this role and looking forward to working with the Consultative Committee members, who bring a wealth of talent and knowledge,” Mr Wootton said.
“Drought and dry conditions in recent years, particularly in south-western Victoria, has highlighted the need for a new blueprint for the region’s long-term water resources.”
The Consultative Committee also includes regional agencies with responsibilities for managing water, including urban and rural water corporations, Catchment Management Authorities, and Traditional Owners.
The Consultative Committee will be supported by working groups made up of community representatives from sectors with water interests including agriculture and environment.
The strategy will cover the western third of Victoria, extending from the south-west coast, across the Wimmera and to the southern Mallee. This includes the towns of Colac, Warrnambool, Portland, Port Campbell, Hamilton, Ouyen, Horsham, Avoca, Stawell, Ararat and Edenhope.
The SWS will address challenges such as changing climates and water availability to plan for how our local waterways and aquifers can continue to support the community’s economic, cultural, environmental, and social values.
Southern Rural Water Acting General Manager Strategy People and Culture Penny Winbanks said they’re looking forward to playing a key role as regulators of surface and groundwater in much of the SWS area.
“We bring a deep understanding about the crucial role water resources play in this productive part of Victoria and look forward to shaping plans that secure the water needed for communities, business and the environment to thrive well into the future,” she said.
Learn more about the Strategy: Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy
Quote attributable to the Minister for Water Gayle Tierney
“Mark brings extensive experience that will be pivotal to delivering a new water strategy for the western region – ensuring our local waterways can support community needs now and into the future.”