DRAFT BARWON RIVER THROUGH GEELONG RECREATIONAL AREA MANAGEMENT PLAN OPEN FOR COMMUNITY FEEDBACK

*Update Friday 24 October 2025: the community consultation period has now closed*

2 October 2025

Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) is seeking public feedback on a draft Barwon River through Geelong Recreational Area Management Plan (RAMP). This document outlines how the land-based section of the Barwon River through Geelong that the CMA is responsible for will be sustainably managed and protected for public enjoyment.

“The Recreational Area Management Plan defines permitted activities, ensures water quality and environmental protection, protects cultural heritage values, protects facilities, and promotes public safety along the land-based area of the waterway,” said Silvana Iannello, Corangamite CMA Senior Project Officer.

“We welcome community feedback on how this land can be managed into the future,” she said.

The Corangamite CMA is responsible for managing a 20-kilometre stretch of the Barwon River parklands through Geelong, including various river reserves, from Queens Park Road bridge, Highton to the lower breakwater (just upstream of Lake Connewarre).

The draft RAMP has been developed in consultation with Traditional Owners, relevant agencies and the Barwon River User Group. It is now available for the public to review and provide feedback until 5pm Friday 24 October 2025 via https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SSJXWP2.

A drop-in session will be held on the afternoon of 15 October in Geelong where the community can view the plan and chat to Corangamite CMA staff.

Historically, Corangamite CMA has managed recreation on the Barwon River through Geelong under By-Law No 2, Barwon River sections 160 and 219. This By-Law has now expired, and the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has developed the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023. These apply to water recreational areas identified under the Water Act 1989 (Vic) including the Barwon River, managed by Corangamite CMA.

A key feature of the regulations is a requirement for water corporations and catchment management authorities to develop management plans for recreational areas under their management; as such Corangamite CMA has drafted the RAMP.

Community Drop-In Session:

Date: Wednesday 15 October, 4:00 - 6:45pm

Location: Barwon Water, 55-67 Ryrie St Geelong

Enquiries: info@ccma.vic.gov.au or 1800 002 262