Current River Access

Can I access the Barwon River for recreational use?

Thursday 13 February 2025 - update

The high levels of Enterococci detected along the Barwon River through Geelong following the big storm on 2 February have significantly reduced.

Results of testing conducted on 10 February, however, show slightly elevated levels at the following locations, where we advise there is still a risk to health for primary contact recreation such as waterskiing:

• Queens Park Nth Bank
• start of the Rowing Mile North Bank
• Breakwater Rd South Bank
• Wilson Road Waterski Club

Thursday 6 February 2025

Following the big storm on the weekend, high levels of Enterococci have been detected along the Barwon River through Geelong managed by Corangamite CMA - from Baum’s Weir to Wilson’s Road.

Enterococci is a bacteria found in faeces. There is a high risk to health for primary contact recreation (activities where you become immersed in the water) and a lower risk for secondary contact (on-water) activities such as boating or canoeing.

After heavy rain, overflowing stormwater flows into the river, polluting the water with bacteria, and Enterococci levels are often elevated.

Corangamite CMA and the EPA recommend avoiding contact with the river for 48 hours following heavy rain.

Tuesday 4 February 2025:

Please note, Barwon Water is advising that a sewer blockage and spill occurred within parkland on the southside of the Barwon River, west of the McIntyre Bridge in Belmont earlier today.

The blockage has been resolved, and crews are currently on site working to clean up the area.

Please avoid the parkland area including the river adjacent to the spill area until further advice from Barwon Water. Signage has been installed.

For more information visit: Cleaning underway after sewer leak - Barwon Water