We provide water for almost 180,000 customers across North Central Victoria.

As part of this role, we manage 34 water storages that supply water for urban, rural, irrigation, and environmental use.

Four of the reservoirs we manage are also Determined Recreational Areas under the Water Act 1989 and provide benefits including:

• Public access to nature, which can promote relaxation and mindfulness.
• Spaces for physical activity such as hiking, biking or walking, which contribute to overall wellness.
• Enhanced liveability, social connection, and sustainable recreation.

We aim to ensure these recreational areas are safe, sustainable, and enjoyable for everyone - while protecting the natural environment.

Members of the community, local groups, and other stakeholders have helped shape the management of these areas by contributing to our current Recreational Area Management Plan, completed in July 2025.

You can read out current Recreational Area Management Plan on this page.

We have commenced the development of a Recreational Area Management Plan for the four Determined Recreational Areas we manage.

A Recreational Area Management Plan is a comprehensive document designed to manage and support the sustainable use and protection of water resources at a water storage used for recreation.

The Plan includes information on area management, public access, and permitted activities. It aims to:

• Set out permitted activities, those that require a permit, and those that are prohibited.
• Protect the land, services, and facilities in the area.
• Protect and maintain water quality and set out required maintenance.
• Promote environmental stewardship and the conservation of flora, fauna, and habitat and biodiversity.
• Protect the health and safety of visitors.
• Support the maintenance and regular review of licences required by clubs or other organisations.
• Protect and promote Aboriginal cultural heritage.
• Facilitate the participation of Traditional Owner groups in the management of these areas.
• Protect and promote other heritage features.

The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has updated the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023.

They apply to recreational areas registered and managed by Victoria's water corporations. These areas are called Determined Recreational Areas under the Water Act 1989 and apply to 40 Victorian water storages.

The regulations help protect water quality, water corporation facilities, Aboriginal cultural heritage, and environmental values.

If a Recreational Area Management Plan is not prepared or followed, there can be legal, environmental, and public health consequences.

Infringements can include fines for the failure to comply with regulations. Without a Plan in place our recreational areas may face challenges related to safety, environmental harm, and unsustainable use.

As part of the regulations, Coliban Water has a Recreational Area Management Plan for the water storages we manage.