Wimmera STRATEGIC DIRECTIONS STATEMENT

AUGUST 2020

Integrated Water Management Forums

Integrated Water Management Forums Acknowledgement of Victoria’s Aboriginal communities

The Victorian Government proudly acknowledges Victoria's Aboriginal communities and their rich culture and pays its respects to their Elders past and present. The government also recognises the intrinsic connection of Traditional Owners to Country and acknowledges their contribution to the management of land, water and resources.

We acknowledge Aboriginal people as Australia’s first peoples and as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and water on which we rely. We recognise and value the ongoing contribution of Aboriginal people and communities to Victorian life and how this enriches us. We embrace the spirit of reconciliation, working towards the equality of outcomes and ensuring an equal voice.

© The State of Victoria Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning 2020 This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International licence. You are free to re-use the work under that licence, on the condition that you credit the State of Victoria as author. The licence does not apply to any images, photographs or branding, including the Victorian Coat of Arms, the Victorian Government logo and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) logo. To view a copy of this licence, visit creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Printed by Finsbury Green, Melbourne

ISBN 978-1-76105-226-2 (print) ISBN 978-1-76105-227-9 (pdf/online/MS word)

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This document is also available on the internet at www.delwp.vic.gov.au

Cover photograph Taylors Lake. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA Barringgi Gadyin (Wimmera River) is the life blood of the Wotjobaluk Peoples, linking everything together.

Barengi Gadjin Land Council (BGLC) Country Plan

Integrated Water Management is a collaborative approach to water planning and management that brings together organisations with an interest in all aspects of the water cycle.

It has the potential to provide greater value to our communities by identifying and leveraging opportunities to optimise outcomes. Contents

Foreword 1 Acknowledgements 2

At a glance 4 IWM Opportunities 5

Chapter 1 The way forward 6 Overview 7 Enduring collaboration 8

Chapter 2 IWM in the Region 10 Vision and Outcome Areas 12 Regional Context 14 Population 14 Climate Change 14 The Case for IWM 16 Safe secure and affordable supplies in an uncertain future 16 Effective and affordable wastewater systems 16 Healthy and valued waterways and marine environments 16 Avoided or minimized existing and future flood risks 17 Healthy and valued landscapes 17 Community values reflected in place-based planning 18 Jobs, economic growth and innovation 18

Chapter 3 IWM opportunities 19 A History of Water Management 20 Success Stories 21 State-wide and region specific initiatives 22 IWM opportunities: How were they selected 23 IWM project & strategy opportunities – overview 24 Priority Portfolio of IWM Opportunities 26 IWM Opportunities Consolidation 27 IWM Future Opportunities 31 Continued success through collaboration 32 Glossary of terms 33 Foreword

The Wimmera region has previously been recognised as one of the most water stressed regions in the Murray Darling Basin. In 2009 approximately 17,500km of open channel system was converted into the “Wimmera Mallee Pipeline project” it was Australia’s largest infrastructure project. At the time the region's total water storages were less than 3%. Integrated Water Management principles have been well documented and continue to underpin the region’s decision making.

The Strategic Direction Statement Our “Forum” is unique as it has been It is my pleasure to present the describes how the region will work incorporated into the regions most Strategic Direction Statement that together to deliver the objectives recognised strategic planning process identifies key priorities for investment, and outcomes of Integrated – the “Regional Partnership”. This fosters a partnership culture and Water Management. alignment sends a clear message delivers meaningful outcomes. about the regional importance of Whilst the core principles of all aspects of the water cycle and Integrated Water Management our commitment to collaboration have been well documented in the and integration across all aspects Wimmera, new approaches and of planning in the Wimmera. Our community expectations of water “Practitioners” group currently chaired management continue to evolve. by VICSES, integrates with the region’s David Brennan floodplain management strategy. We As a forum, we look forward to Chair of the Wimmera IWM Forum achieving our vision where believe this model of engagement “Wimmera communities are delivers the maximum benefit to the maximising appropriate water region and the most efficient and use opportunities to contribute to effective means of delivery. improving life, property, community wellbeing and the economy.”

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 1 Acknowledgements

The Wimmera IWM Forum area includes Wotjobaluk Country. Barengi Gadjin Land Council is the Trustee for the Native Title rights and interests of the Wotjobaluk, Jaadwa, Jadawadjali, Wergaia & Jupagalk Peoples (collectively Wotjobaluk) and this Strategic Directions Statement acknowledges the important role of Traditional Owners of this Country.

There is an opportunity for This will drive significant improvements Traditional Owners to work with to waterway management processes Several Traditional Owner other stakeholders to identify and and create a knowledge base which groups intersect with the map cultural sites and values along can be managed by Traditional boundary of the Wimmera waterway corridors in the region. Owner groups. IWM Forum area. Each project working group will liaise with relevant Traditional Owners to determine the appropriate approach and level of involvement in The Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement has been planning and delivery. developed in collaboration with:

2 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Yarriambiack Creek at Warracknabeal looking East. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA At a glance

The Wimmera IWM Strategic Directions Statement highlights the key challenges in the region and also identifies collaborative IWM opportunities that can improve resilience and liveability in cities and towns in the region.

Projects with multiple delivery locations Our Vision include – 3a, 3e, 5a, 5b & 7a.

Wimmera communities are maximising appropriate water use opportunities to contribute to improving life, Hattah property, community wellbeing and the economy.

Strategic outcomes: Ouyen

1. Safe secure and affordable supplies in an uncertain future

2. Effective and affordable wastewater systems Sea Lake

3. Avoided or minimized existing

and future flood risks Hopetoun 4. Healthy and valued waterways, wetlands and waterbodies Birchip 5. Healthy and valued landscapes Wycheproof 3f 6. Community values reflected

in place-based planning Warracknabeal 3d Charlton 7. Jobs, economic benefits Nhill Kaniva 3c Donald 1 and innovation Dimboola 7b Murtoa 4e St Arnaud Horsham 7c Natimuk 4a 4b 4c 6a 6b

Glenorchy

Edenhope 3b Stawell 2 4f 7c Harrow 7d 4d Halls Gap

Ararat

Maroona

Lake Bolac

4 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Potable Water Substitution Investigation IWM opportunities – phase 1 delivery 5a Potable Water substitution for Green Spaces A desktop assessment of current regional potable water demand for public green spaces. Water consumption and costs to Partners of the forum are committing their best connect to raw water were identified and endeavours to ensure priority projects and projects prioritised. 5b Fit for purpose watering strategies are progressed in line with the shared of green spaces vision and strategic outcomes of the Wimmera An extension of the potable water substitution project by considering IWM Forum. alternative water source opportunities for green spaces such as stormwater and recycling options. IWM Opportunities Consolidation 3f Wycheproof Wetlands Development City to River – Incorporating IWM This project involves redeveloping 1 Donald IWM Plan Outcomes old redundant water storages into a Development of a plan considering urban wetland system for community recreation Horsham City to River – growth and land use, including a broad opportunities. 6a Incorporating IWM Outcomes Hattah community discussion to define a vision, objectives and assess options for future Maximise Reclaimed A project to enshrine the principles of IWM holistic water management in the town. Water Opportunities into the HRCC City to River design and implementation. 2 Mooney Dams Reactivation 4a Horsham West Reclaimed Water Burnt Creek – Waterway Ouyen A project to improve the quality of water This project identified robust opportunities 6b access to Green Lake within existing dams and enable irrigation and strategies for reusing recycled water of a nearby town sporting precinct whilst from the town wastewater treatment plant, A concept idea to create a recreational enhancing green space opportunities in to improve water security in Horsham transport link between natural assets to the vicinity. longer term, and to allow more flexible and connect communities strategic planning. Fit for Purpose Water for Green Spaces IWM Future Opportunities Sea Lake 4b Fit for purpose water for existing 3a Wimmera Drought Resilience Public Open Spaces Irrigated by Potable water for West Masterplan Stormwater 7a Wimmera towns A comprehensive review of IWM This project aims to investigate alternative Hopetoun The project looks to capitalise on existing opportunities for key towns in the shires of stormwater retention systems within the city opportunities for potable supply to several Yarriambiack, West Wimmera, Hindmarsh to opportunistically irrigate from this source townships in the West Wimmera Shire, and Buloke. Opportunities from stormwater, rather than potable supply. including Edenhope, Harrow, Goroke, wastewater treatment plants and raw Apsley and Kaniva. Birchip supply will be considered in consultation 4c Horsham Water Grid with local communities to reduce the 7b St Arnaud amenity of water Wycheproof An investigation to determine the in storage reliance on potable supply. infrastructure required to enable water of Enhancing water for Lake Wallace varying sources to be utilised within the This project aims to transform a current Warracknabeal Charlton 3b & Edenhope Recreation township. water storage to a healthy and valued Nhill public space for passive recreation Water Sharing rules and Water Kaniva Donald Investigation to identify and enhance 4d opportunities for the community. Dimboola existing water sources for the Lake Wallace Supply Backup for Lake Wartook and Edenhope area to provide recreation 7c Urban Creek transformation A project to analyse the consumption of in Rural Towns opportunity. water from the Lake Wartook system, to Murtoa St Arnaud Kaniva Cricket club precinct create rules for future water use that will This project aims to transform and Horsham 3c water security improve water security. return creeks from current concrete lined Natimuk channels to natural systems, creating The project will investigate options for 4e Murtoa reclaimed Water from Grain passive recreation opportunities for their reducing reliance on potable supply for Bunkers Glenorchy community. the sporting facility through use of IWM Uptake of a previously undervalued water opportunities. Repair weir at Harrow for watering Edenhope supply source to provide additional water 7d Stawell Johnny Mullagh Memorial Park 3d Whitton Swamp to town green infrastructure. Harrow Halls Gap The proposed works to repair and enhance This project will investigate options 4f Stawell Gold Mine – dewatering the weir crossing, including a necessary fish for providing water to a former water opportunities ladder/passage structure, would provide Ararat storage and wetland to create additional This project will investigate the opportunity emergency egress for residents in case community recreation opportunities. and viability of using dewatering water of a bushfire, provide increased water Maroona for irrigation of the Crown Reserve, whilst 3e Greening town streets from the Stawell Gold mine within the parks and gardens of the Stawell township. creating long term sustainable benefits for In concert with the drought resilience fish populations, waterway health, masterplan, this investigation will explore and recreational fishing values. Lake Bolac opportunities to improve the greening of regional town streets to enhance liveability.

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 5

Chapter 1 The way forward

An unprecedented opportunity to progress water cycle planning and management in Victoria through collaboration.

Hopetoun Lake. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA Chapter 1

Introduction

The Integrated Water Management (IWM) Framework for Victoria (September 2017) is designed to help regional stakeholders to work together, ensuring the water cycle contributes to the liveability of towns and cities in Victoria, with communities at the centre of decision making.

The Integrated Water Management These aspirations reflect a desire for (IWM) Framework for Victoria liveable and productive places and Integrated Water (September 2017) is designed to vibrant communities. The way in which Management help regional stakeholders to work we plan and use water is fundamental together, ensuring the water cycle to ensuring these aspirations are Integrated Water contributes to the liveability of towns realised. Management is a and cities in Victoria, with communities collaborative approach to Regional IWM is also strengthened at the centre of decision making. water planning that brings by the formation of Catchment together organisations that The central premise of an IWM Partnership areas under the influence all aspects of approach is the overall acceptance Government’s Our Catchments, the water cycle. It has the that managing urban liveability and Our Communities Integrated potential to provide greater resilience is a shared responsibility Catchment Management Strategy value to our communities by and that water is a key enabler to for Victoria (2016-19). The Traditional identifying and leveraging achieving these shared aims. Owners of land are active participants opportunities to optimise the in water and waterway management outcomes of the water cycle. To facilitate this, IWM Forums have across the region. For example, the been established across the state Barengi Gadjin Country Plan 2014- to identify, prioritise and oversee 2034 sets out goals for river and This SDS includes a list of IWM the implementation of critical catchment management as well as opportunities, including projects collaborative opportunities. This community well-being which can be and strategies, developed in Strategic Directions Statement has enabled through water management. collaboration by the Wimmera been produced by the Wimmera IWM region IWM Forum partners. Forum to capture and communicate those opportunities. What is a Strategic Directions Partners of the Forum have committed Statement? their organisations to apply their best IWM seeks to build on existing endeavours to: partnerships and planning processes. This Strategic Directions Statement In the Wimmera region, stakeholders (SDS) articulates the regional context, • Ensure priority projects and such as local government, catchment the shared vision and the strategic strategies are progressed in line management authorities and water water-related outcomes for the with the shared vision and strategic corporations engage with their Wimmera Region IWM Forum region. outcomes of the Wimmera IWM communities regularly to improve Forum; and to service delivery and urban planning. • Support DELWP to progress priority Community aspirations are embedded strategic enablers for IWM in Victoria. in the strategies and operational plans for organisations. It is envisaged that the SDS will be a living document which will be updated to reflect the current Wimmera Region IWM Forum priorities and opportunities.

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 7 Enduring collaboration

IWM is an evolving process that seeks to coordinate and balance many views and interests in the water sector around common goals and shared outcomes. IWM Forums collaborate and oversee ongoing IWM planning. The IWM Forum cycle is summarised on the next page.

How we’re working together The Wimmera IWM Forum partners Recognising Aboriginal will continue to work together values in water planning The Wimmera IWM Forum identifies, and develop productive, enduring and management coordinates and prioritises areas that relationships to realise the shared The Wimmera IWM Forum is would most benefit from collaborative vision for the region. committed to working in partnership and place-based water management with Aboriginal Victorians across planning and delivery. Further information on the IWM Forum’s governance and planning landscapes, communities and natural To ensure IWM is successful and framework is outlined in the Integrated resources. enduring across the region, Forum Water Management Framework for Several Traditional Owner groups partners have committed to the Victoria, available at https://www. intersect with the boundary of the promotion of a collaborative and water.vic.gov.au/liveable/resilient- Wimmera IWM Forum area. Each shared values culture within their own and-liveable-cities-and-towns/iwm- project working group will liaise organisations and beyond through framework with relevant Traditional Owners to their work with key water cycle delivery determine the appropriate approach partners and local communities. and level of involvement in planning The Wimmera IWM Forum is governed and delivery. by an open and transparent IWM planning process (Figures 1 and 2). Figure 1 IWM Planning Governance Structure This process assumes a holistic, whole-of-cycle approach to determining water cycle solutions, considering regulatory accountabilities and service delivery responsibilities.

Each organisation plays an important IWM Forum role in the decision-making and management of the water resources and assets for the entire catchment.

Collaboration across Forum partners ensures balanced consideration of the complex economic, environmental, cultural and community benefits and Practitioner Network impacts associated with the range of proposed IWM projects and work programs.

Plan or Project Plan or Project Plan or Project Working Group Working Group Working Group

8 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 1

Figure 2 IWM Forum planning and delivery process

Outcomes Participants Phase I

Establish Preliminary work on regional characterisation Local governments (offline, where necessary) Organisational Catchment leaders come Agree vision and objectives, goals & targets Management Authorities together in (where appropriate) collaborative IWM Water corporations Forums to discuss Agree criteria for selection and prioritisation of opportunities Department of integrated water Environment, Land, management Opportunities identified and prioritised Water and Planning opportunities and priorities for each IWM Plan Working Groups form to progress priority Chair region projects and build intra-organisational support (offline) Others as relevant

Phase II

Develop IWM Plan Working Groups develop objectives, Relevant organisations IWM Forums place-based outcomes, and service levels for each who are a part of a collaborate Working groups project sub group will form to develop and oversee IWM Plans for Technical and economic analysis, cost allocation, ongoing prioritised projects business case development into a 'prospectus' IWM planning to attract investment

IWM Plan Working Groups plan project delivery; report progress to IWM Forums

Incorporate IWM Plan Working Groups to take commitments Individual organisations to their Board or Councillors for endorsement who have committed to Organisations a project incorporate relevant IWM Plan Working Groups to incorporate elements elements of IWM into their own organisational planning systems Plans in their own planning system, Report back to IWM Forum and prepare for next round e.g. Council and of opportunity identification and prioritisation corporate plans

Deliver IWM Plans implemented Individual organisations who have committed to IWM Plans are Additional community value added through a project implemented collaborative planning

Economic savings through shored costs

Improved resilience and liveability of cities and towns

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 9

Chapter 2 IWM in the Region

Understanding why an integrated approach to water planning and management is critical for the Wimmera IWM Region now and for the future.

Celebrate The Creek, Beulah. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA

Wimmera River, Horsham. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA Vision and Outcome Areas for the Wimmera IWM Forum Region

Outcomes

Safe, secure and affordable Effective and affordable Avoided or minimised existing Healthy and valued waterways, Healthy and valued landscapes Community values are reflected Jobs, economic benefits and innovation supplies in an uncertain future wastewater systems and future flood risks wetlands and water bodies in place-based planning

Objectives

A diverse range of water Meets public health and Communities and properties Improved water quality Active and passive recreation supported Diverse landscapes that reflect local Jobs and local economies, including supplies and resources environmental standards that are resilient to local flood by water conditions and community values industry, tourism and agriculture, supported which are fit for purpose risk by water

Water quality meets regulatory Efficient and effective Appropriate levels of flood Improved stream flow patterns Improved connectivity and access for Traditional owner values, needs and Strong governance and collaboration standards and community wastewater systems with protection and mitigation active transport links aspirations associated with water models that evolve to deliver innovative expectations servicing needs aligned including adaptation for climate protected, enhanced and reintroduced solutions with future town and land change use planning

Efficiently and effectively Waste-to-resource Proactive planning to prepare Improved biodiversity and Urban landscapes retain moisture for cooler, Water sensitive communities that manage water usage opportunities are maximised for and manage flood risk amenity of riparian corridors greener cities and towns are empowered and engaged and demand and edges

Secure and adaptable water Local water related risks and issues are supply portfolios understood and managed by community

Recognise the competing values that exist for community use of public open space

12 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Our Vision IWM Outcome Areas

Wimmera communities are maximising The region is seeking to achieve seven Low-emission appropriate water use opportunities key outcomes through IWM. Each solutions to contribute to improving life, of these will have a significant role IWM opportunities that minimise the property, community wellbeing and in shaping the liveability, prosperity release of greenhouse gas (GHGs) the economy. and resilience of our cities and emissions will be considered by the towns. These outcome areas provide Forum as solutions are evaluated for implementation. indicators to assess the effectiveness of the various IWM opportunities, recognising that these outcomes are in themselves co-dependant.

Outcomes

Objectives

Secure and adaptable water Local water related risks and issues are supply portfolios understood and managed by community

Recognise the competing values that exist for community use of public open space

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 13 Regional context

The Wimmera IWM Forum region covers an area of approximately 63,200 square kilometres, extending from Lake Bolac in the south to Ouyen in the north, reaching as far as St Arnaud and Donald to the east and Apsley in the west.

Horsham is the largest city in the Climate Change The average annual rainfall is region by a substantial margin, though predicted to decrease by 5-12 per other towns include Stawell, Ararat, The Wimmera Region faces a warmer cent by 2050 (median value) – Ouyen and Donald . The region and drier future. By 2050, average primarily impacting the ‘cool’ season. includes more than 20 smaller towns, annual maximum temperatures across This presents a challenge for the making the region and its water the region are projected to rise by region, as there will be an increased opportunities very diverse. 1.6°C to 2.2°C (median value). This will demand for urban water resulting be amplified in urban centres due to with a hotter and drier climate. The Wimmera regions environment the prevalence of darker and harder surfaces, leading to environmental *Climate information sourced from the Wimmera ranges from mountains and plains, Southern Climate Projections report 2019. to desert; from moist foothill forest and human health impacts. Ensuring to Box–Ironbark Forest, Buloke the provision of fit for purpose water Woodland, grasslands, wetlands and for the region’s urban greening will be Mallee Heath. The average annual a key priority in enhancing liveability rainfall varies from 1,000 mm in the and resilience for the community Grampians to as little as 300 mm and environment. across the Northern Plains.

Population

The region has an estimated population of 61,800.

Wild Action. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA

14 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Wimmera

POPULATION CHANGE THE REGION 61,800* NOW (2018) 20% DRYLAND PASTURE 5% NON-FARMLAND 58,000 BY 2036 (RURAL LIVING, ROADS 63,214km2 AND WATER BODIES) CATCHMENT 32% NATIVE VEGETATION AREA 42% BROAD ACRE CROPPING <1% HORTICULTURE <1% URBAN

ANNUAL RAINFALL WATERWAYS

5-12% DECREASE BY 2050 UNDER MEDIUM AND HIGH CLIMATE CHANGE EMISSIONS SCENARIOS (MEDIAN VALUE)

TEMPERATURE WIMMERA BASIN C INCREASE 58% 1.6-2.2˚ IN A ‘MODERATE’ BY 2050 UNDER MEDIUM AND HIGH CLIMATE CONDITION CHANGE EMISSIONS SCENARIOS (MEDIAN VALUE)

* Based on VIF2019 projections at SA2 level.

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 15 The case for IWM in the Region

Safe, secure Healthy and affordable and valued supplies in an waterways, uncertain future wetlands and water bodies

The Wimmera region sources water Mallee region. The supply to existing The Regional Waterway Strategies from a number of catchments both urban, rural and industrial users has for the Wimmera, North Central locally within the region, and from a high degree of water security and and Glenelg Hopkins show that outside the region via the Glenelg is resilient to future climate scenarios the waterways, wetlands and and Murray Rivers. The Wimmera- at current levels of demand. Future waterbodies of the region are Mallee Pipeline is an important supplies would be compromised embraced by the urban and rural element of the Victorian water grid, under increasing demands and more communities for their aesthetic, which provides water from extreme climate scenarios. Supplies recreational, tourism and restorative the Grampians to ensure security of to other demands, such as recreation appeal. These values can be supply for urban and rural customers lakes are public open spaces are challenged by poor water quality in the Wimmera, Southern Mallee typically impacted more significantly. and are suffering from degradation and South-West Loddon region. The provision of alternative water due to surface water runoff from The primary source of water for sources and demand management impervious surfaces, untreated the region is surface water and are key strategies to avoid shortfalls. stormwater and wastewater groundwater supplies along with discharges. Some waterways are local utilisation of recycled water Partners in the region are currently also suffering from flow stress due to and urban stormwater. working to plan and deliver new water extractions for urban supply, pipeline systems to improve supply, agricultural and stock water. The Wimmera Mallee Pipeline; security, water quality and support completed in 2010; has contributed economic development within and There is a need to take a whole of significantly to the future security of outside the region. catchment approach to waterway water supply across the Wimmera- health, recognising both the urban and rural impacts on waterways and waterbodies and the varying needs and values connected to Effective and waterways. Many of the waterways and wetlands in the area contain affordable a rich and diverse range of wastewater important cultural heritage sites systems and form a culturally important and significant part of country There are reticulated sewage The most effective strategy for for Traditional Owner groups systems within fifteen towns across wastewater management combined in the region. the Wimmera region. These systems with town planning and the provision collect and treat sewage at of other infrastructure needs is being wastewater management facilities. investigated through partnerships Other small towns in the region between local councils and continue to use onsite septic systems GWMWater. to treat their wastewater. Wastewater Efficient and ‘high-value’ reuse of management has been progressively treated wastewater is an important improved in recent years through the potential resource for the region. delivery of new sewer schemes to There are nine towns with wastewater small towns such as Rupanyup and facilities producing Class C water Great Western. GWMWater is currently for on-site and/or off-site reuse. planning a new scheme for Goroke. Reclaimed water is primarily utilised Small town wastewater management for irrigation of agricultural land, is an important issue across the vineyards, local sporting facilities region from an environmental, and parks. Reclaimed water use in the health, technical, governance region totals around 2.6 gigalitres (GL). and financial perspective.

16 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 2

Avoided or minimised Healthy existing and valued and future landscapes flood risks

Floodplains are a valued part the Projects to reduce flood risk Healthy landscapes are valued in ecosystem in the Wimmera region. to homes and businesses often the Wimmera region, playing a key The ‘flooding’ process provides provide an opportunity to role in the liveability of urban and essential nutrients to the region’s support IWM. Retention basins rural communities. agricultural land, but major flood in open space areas can also events can also have significant be utilised as water treatment The support of well-connected impacts on agricultural economies. areas or providing dual storage public open space and recreational for flood retention and water areas within the urban environment In an urban context, flooding is more harvesting. Integration of green are important for health, well- of a challenge as the majority of infrastructure also contributes being and serenity. The landscapes towns are built adjoining rivers, creeks to reduced flows to drainage adjoining waterways are often or wetlands Significant economic systems, helping to reduce important for active transportation damage has been experienced from flood risk in urban areas. and recreation. It is estimated flooding on several occasions, with that these areas stimulated more notable events effecting Horsham, than $31M in contributions to local Glenorchy, Warracknabeal and 1 Charlton , as well as the towns of economies during 2018-19 . Councils Dimboola, Jeparit and Halls Gap. in the region recognise this and are Climate change is predicted to actively promoting healthy and bring more intense rainfall events valued landscapes that integrate which may create further flooding land use and water planning. challenges. It is essential to manage Healthy rural landscapes are also the economic, social, environmental and cultural values from floodplains a priority in the region, and there in a balanced way whilst also having is often a close connection between regard for their inherent risks. This urban and rural land and water will be particularly relevant in the management. Agriculture is a key context of increased extreme rainfall industry for rural towns and also events and a strong desire for the a large water user. Urban areas community to increase the utilisation generate recycled water and of waterways. stormwater which can be utilised to support nearby rural water needs in some areas, creating a mutually beneficial relationship between economies.

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 17 Jobs, economic benefits and innovation

Major industries in the region Water plays a key role in include Agriculture, mining supporting industry and and manufacturing. One of economic development in the economic strengths of the region. The potential for the region is its diversity. The reticulated water and sewerage regional economy is projected services in some small towns has to increase and education, been highlighted as a potential tourism and hospitality display catalyst for regional growth and higher growth in recent times development. than traditional industries. The significant tourism and Several studies have captured recreation economy in the the potential for the region region is also strongly linked to develop innovative food to the health and amenity production systems to meet provided by the region’s the demands of a growing waterways, lakes and population. These could include towns. Raw and recycled introducing hydroponics as well water supplies also support as the expansion of the diversity agricultural economies in of primary production to include the region. As water supply more viticulture and horticulture. challenges emerge, there is opportunity for innovation and collaboration with industry to ensure economic development and water planning are coordinated.

Community values reflected in place-based planning

The relationship between public Development of new areas and space and harness new water health and wellbeing, and redevelopment of existing areas sources to achieve benefits for the environment is becoming provides an opportunity to actively communities, including health increasingly recognised as an engage communities in planning and well-being. Given the diversity area of importance. The creation and design, helping to increase of urban areas in the region, of greener neighbourhoods and dialogue to aid understanding there is a need for a similarly providing residents with access and education around water. diverse approach to engage to waterways and green Key development areas such as and recognise community needs. space has the potential to the Horsham River to City project support environmental and provide opportunities to enhance socio-economic outcomes. local waterways, deliver recreational

1Wimmera Southern Mallee Socio-Economic Value of Recreational Water 2019 -. Street Ryan 2019 -

18 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Chapter 3 IWM opportunities

A portfolio of IWM projects and strategies for which IWM collaborative partners have committed themselves to applying their best endeavours to progress.

Horsham fishing competition. Courtesy: Paul Carracher, The Weekly Advertiser A History of Water Management

The Wimmera region has a strong & proud history of water management with the construction of a stock and domestic channel supply system covering some 2.9 million hectares (12% of the Victoria) which was once one of the largest water supply systems in the world through 17,500kms of earthen channels.

Whilst this system allowed the region almost dry and the efficient system https://www.water.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/ pdf_file/0029/67529/DELWP-MillenniumDrought- to develop and prosper for over 100 barely enabling the region to scrape web-SB.pdf.pdf years it was inefficient with up to 85% through before welcoming rains in https://www.gwmwater.org.au/our-water- of water diverted from its headwaters late 2010 and 2011. supply/history-of-our-water-supply/ constructing-the-wimmera-mallee- lost through seepage pipeline#a1890 and evaporation. The pipeline saves on average 103 billion litres of water a year compared Construction of a replacement, to the previous channel consumption. piped system was undertaken It provides a continuous water supply throughout the Millenium Drought to approximately 7,000 rural customers with the Northern Mallee Pipeline and 36 towns across the Wimmera commencing in 1994 and the last leg and Mallee as well as water for the of the Wimmera Mallee Pipeline being environments rivers, creeks and laid in April of 2010, 6 years ahead wetlands through water allocations of its originally targeted timeframe. brought about by savings. Many believe, without this fast paced delivery the region may not have made it through the drought with many headworks storages being

Brim Silo. Courtesy: Wimmera CMA

20 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

Success stories

Rupanyup – Creek Restoration The development of a series of water One of the first such projects in sensitive urban design features to the Wimmera and indeed regional Wimmera people recognise the capture and enhance the quality Victoria, the Weir Park Wetlands importance of water in many aspects of stormwater before it passes allow the collection and cleansing of their lives and the Dunmunkle Creek into the Wimmera River has been of urban stormwater from adjacent Restoration Project in Rupanyup modified over the years to maximise residential development and the demonstrates the value of integrated the volumes of water captured. Grains Innovation Park whilst creating water management in the region. Modifications have reduced the additional floodplain storage to requirement for potable water reduce the impact of future floods on The implementation of the Wimmera supplied to irrigate several nearby residents. Treatment includes Mallee Pipeline resulted in redundant sporting fields including hockey, litter traps, sediment ponds and lakes water storages in the town. A flood croquet and bowls as well as public along with wetland plants and shrubs study investigation in the Dunmunkle parks in the centre of the town. to cleanse water prior to entering the Creek had identified that these water The system also helps to reduce Wimmera River downstream of the storages were restricting floodwater the likelihood of stormwater flooding Horsham weir providing much needed flows. Flood modelling demonstrated through the capture of the Horsham flow especially during dry times. the restrictions caused flooding central business district and nearby in the town as the storages were The area is an enormously beneficial residential areas. constructed within the bed and banks recreation facility, with walking tracks of the Dunmunkle Creek, utilising and rest areas providing passive gravity to provide water. Weir Park Wetlands recreation alongside the Wimmera River corridor. The Dunmunkle Creek alignment and This artificially constructed profile has been restored after the environment opened at the turn of decommissioning of the water storage the century (2000), creating a public reservoirs eliminating inundation of open space for communities of the up to 20 houses in the Rupanyup future to enjoy. township during a 1% flood. The area is now being developed to create a community public open space with walking trails and native plantings to provide a recreation space for the Rupanyup community to enjoy.

Horsham – Racecourse Wetlands

Lush green turf is just one of the benefits brought about by several projects to enhance the capture and treatment of stormwater to the west of the Horsham central business district in recent years.

Horsham Racecourse Wetlands. Courtesy: Horsham Rural City Council

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 21 State-wide and region specific initiatives

This document outlines priority IWM opportunities for the Wimmera region. This includes strategies that will direct IWM in the region and specific projects that will deliver outcomes on-the-ground.

To ensure IWM opportunities are A prioritised list of enabling policies successful and delivered efficiently, and frameworks is being consolidated work is also being done at a state- by DELWP. wide level. A Resilient Cities and Towns (RCT) Across Victoria, IWM Forums have Reference Group was established identified a range of strategic to support the implementation policy and framework enablers to of integrated water management address barriers to integrated water and planning across the state. management and planning and The Reference Group provides advice achieve water related benefits to DELWP on the development and in priority areas. implementation of key initiatives in relation to policy, processes or knowledge gaps.

IWM framework at a State-wide and regional level State-wide initiatives

Enabling Policy Enabling Principles or rules that Frameworks put IWM into practise Guidance on analysis, design and delivery of IWM opportunities Region speciﬁc opportunities

Strategies Projects High-level directions designed to Planned set activities to be executed achieve IWM outcomes over a over a defined period and within defined time-period for a defined certain cost to achieve a goal. geographic location.

22 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement Chapter 3

IWM opportunities: How were they selected?

IWM opportunities that link to and address IWM challenges for the region were identified and developed by the nominated practitioners of participating organisations. The process was an iterative, transparent and inclusive approach, as outlined in Figure 3.

This list of opportunities is dynamic and will be reviewed and updated as required to reflect the Forum’s priorities.

Figure 3: The IWM opportunity prioritisation process

1 2 3 4

Stage 1 Stage 2 Stage 3 Stage 4 Opportunity Opportunity Evaluation of Selection of priority Identiﬁcation development Opportunities opportunities A series of stakeholder Stakeholders completed A workshop was held The priority opportunities meetings were held to further work to develop with stakeholders to were then further identify IWM and reﬁne the evaluate opportunities reviewed by considering: opportunities. opportunity concepts. by considering: • The distribution of • contribution to IWM opportunities across strategic outcomes, the region; and • The likelihood of • level of urgency. funding; Priority projects and • The likelihood of strategies were then implementation; selected from the list • The spread across of opportunities based strategic outcome on the evaluation. areas; and • The distribution of short, medium and long term projects.

Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement 23 IWM project & strategy opportunities – overview

Consolidation Quick Win # Name IWM opportunity Strategic outcomes Location Scale Y/N Lead Partners Project Type Project Status

1 Donald IWM Plan Donald Town/City N North Central CMA Buloke Shire Council Strategy

Northern Grampians 2 Mooney Dams Reactivation Stawell Town/City Y Project Shire Council

Buloke, Hindmarsh, West Wimmera Drought 3a Wimmera Councils Inter-Forum N GWMWater Wimmera & Yarriambiack Shire Strategy Resilience Masterplan Councils Enhancing water for Lake West Wimmera Shire 3b Wallace & Edenhope Edenhope Town/City N Project Council recreation

Kaniva Cricket club precinct West Wimmera Shire 3c Kaniva Lot Scale Y Project water security Council

Yarriambiack Shire 3d Whitton Swamp Warracknabeal Lot Scale N Project (& Recreation) Council

3e Greening town streets All shires Forum Area N All shires Project

Fit for Purpose Water for Green Spaces Spaces Green for Water Purpose Fit for Wycheproof Wetlands 3f Wycheproof Lot Scale Y Buloke Shire Council GWMWater, Wimmera CMA Project Development

Horsham West Reclaimed Horsham Rural city Horsham Rural City 4a Town/City Y Project Water council Council

Fit for purpose water for Horsham Rural city Horsham Rural City 4b existing open spaces Sub Catchment Y Project council Council irrigated by stormwater

Horsham Rural City 4c Horsham Water Grid Horsham Town/City N Strategy Council

Water Sharing rules and 4d water supply backup for Lake Wartook Forum Area Y GWMWater Wimmera CMA Strategy Wartook

Murtoa Reclaimed Water Yarriambiack Shire 4e Murtoa Town/City N Grain Receival Company Project from grain bunkers Council

Maximise Reclaimed Water opportunities Water Reclaimed Maximise Stawell Gold Mine - Northern Grampians 4f Stawell Town/City N Stawell Gold Mine Project dewatering opportunities Shire Council

Potable water substitution GWMWater & all 5a Regional opportunities Forum Area N Project for Green Spaces councils

delivery Fit for purpose watering of GWMWater & all 5b 1 - Phase Regional opportunities Forum Area N Project Substitution Substitution

Investigation Investigation Green Spaces councils Potable Water Water Potable Horsham City to River Horsham Rural City 5c - Incorporating IWM Horsham Town/City N GWMWater, Wimmera CMA Project Council Outcomes

Burnt Creek - Waterway Burnt Creek & Green Horsham Rural City 5d Sub Catchment N Project Incorporating Incorporating City to River - River City to access to Green Lake Lake Council IWM Outcomes

Potable water for West West Wimmera West Wimmera Shire 6a Inter-Forum N Strategy Wimmera towns townships Council

St Arnaud amenity of water Northern Grampians 6b St Arnaud Town/City N GWMWater Project in storage Shire Council

Urban Creek Transformation Northern Grampians 6c Stawell & St Arnaud Town/City Y North Central CMA, GWMWater Project in Rural towns Shire Council

Repair weir at Harrow for West Wimmera Shire

6d Opportunities IWM Future watering Johnny Mullagh Harrow Lot Scale Y Project Council Memorial Park

24 Wimmera Strategic Directions Statement The status of each IWM opportunity included in the Priority Portfolio reflects the phase of work to be undertaken in this time period. Chapter 3 A summarised list of priority IWM to be updated to reflect the current ensure priority projects and strategies opportunities is shown in the table Wimmera IWM Forum’s priorities are progressed in line with the shared below, with more detail in the and opportunities. The projects vision and strategic outcomes of the following section. Please note that are grouped in themes, but are not IWM Forum. this list is dynamic and will continue ranked. Partners of the Forum will

Project opportunity status Shade scale Concept & feasibility Business case Detailed design Implementation Commission Benefit realisation

Strategy opportunity status

No Impact Impact Concept Commitment Prepare draft Consult & finalise Implement Evaluate