GWMWater

29/05/2026

WATER TRADING | Learn how water trading helped Gavin and Tanya stay on track ✅️

Running a mixed farming operation means water is part of everyday life — and sometimes, unexpected things happen.

Gavin and Tanya Sait run a cropping and sheep enterprise near Charlton, relying on water for stock, spraying, gardens and household needs. With water playing such a vital role, keeping an eye on usage is essential — but even with the best intentions, things don’t always go to plan.

An unexpected challenge:
An undetected leak meant Gavin and Tanya unknowingly used more water than their allowance. By the time it was identified, their usage had exceeded their allocation.

They were aware of the GWMWater Customer Portal but hadn’t set it up. With support from staff, they could see how helpful it was to track use and set alerts to avoid future surprises.

A practical solution:
They chose to arrange a temporary water trade with another rural pipeline customer to cover their usage.

“It was reassuring to know we could buy additional water… helping us avoid excess water charges.”
— Gavin

“The whole process was quite easy… GWMWater staff were great to deal with.”
— Tanya

Looking ahead:
Now using the Customer Portal, they’ve set up alerts so unusual water use can be detected sooner — helping protect their water allowance and budget.

✅ Their advice:
“If your water use changes, or something unexpected happens, reach out to GWMWater staff and explore your options. We experienced a good process with a positive outcome. Thumbs up!”
– Tanya

For more info on water trading, visit 👉gwmwater.org.au/trading or call us on 1300 659 961.

To learn more about the Customer Portal, visit 👉 gwmwater.org.au/portal

19/05/2026

HONOURABLE MENTION | Each month, we’ll be sharing one of our Honourable Mentions from the 2026 Community Photo Competition.

Congratulations to Heidi Smith for her amazing photo of Lake Lascelles at sunset 🌄✨

Heidi has received a $100 gift voucher in recognition of her entry.

Well done, Heidi! 👏

To view other honourable mentions, as well as our winning entry, visit 👉 gwmwater.org.au/photocompetition

17/05/2026

WIPES BLOCK PIPES | We’re seeing a concerning increase in wipes being flushed down toilets across all of our towns.

Even wipes labelled as ‘flushable’ don’t break down like toilet paper. When they enter the sewer system, they can quickly build up, blocking pipes and pumps. This increases the risk of overflows and costly damage.

For more info visit 👉 gwmwater.org.au/news/957-wipes-block-pipes

17/05/2026

HORSHAM | Our crews are on site for emergency works on the corner of Wawunna Road and Dimboola Road/Western Highway in Horsham.

Please avoid the area if you can.

Some customers in the area may be impacted with no water / low pressure.

We are working to fix as soon as possible.

11/05/2026

WELL DONE, MARK! | Congratulations to Mark Reid, our Mallee Water Treatment Plant Operator, who took out Victorian Operator of the Year award! ✨️

Well done, Mark! 🎊

2026 VICTORIAN OPERATOR OF THE YEAR!

Congratulations to Mark Reid, Water Treatment Plant Operator from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water (GWMWater).

This award recognised Mark as a highly skilled Water Treatment Plant Operator whose innovation, dedication and leadership have ensured reliable water supply for multiple communities.

Through critical work on the Hopetoun tank renewal project, including installing an above-ground line, PLC modifications and mechanical repairs to pumps and systems, he maintained continuous supply during challenging conditions.

Marks solutions later proved essential during a wider supply issue affecting other towns. Known for his calm approach, technical expertise and willingness to mentor others, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure safe drinking water is delivered to customers and that treatment plants are maintained to a high standard.

Mark completes all of his safety inspections and has been instrumental in working out the design of new work Ute vehicle canopies to ensure adequate lighting and alarms fitted to alert the Operator if the canopy door is left open. Mark has recently started a trial to install cameras on tanks to minimise the frequency that staff need to climb tanks to conduct tank inspections, thereby improving staff safety. Mark is always looking for ways to improve safety.

Operations professionals like Mark are at the heart of delivering safe, reliable water to our communities - appreciation at its finest! Proudly Sponsored by VicWater

Nominations close for our 2026 QLD Operator of the year on Wednesday, 3 June. Apply here: wioa.org.au/qldawards
Sponsored by @!Queensland Water Directorate

Join us to celebrate at the QLD Awards dinner on the Gold Coast, 25 June.
Register here: wioa.org.au/2026qld
Primary host: City of Gold Coast

22/04/2026

LAKE FYANS HOLIDAY PARK | There are no plans for GWMWater to close the Lake Fyans Holiday Park.

We’re aware of rumours suggesting the park will close when the current lease ends. The Lake Fyans Recreation Reserve Committee of Management and GWMWater have no intention of closing the Holiday Park.

The current lease for the Holiday Park runs until 2031, and it will be the current operator who will determine how the Holiday Park operates until this time.

Any plans for the Holiday Park beyond 2031 will be developed in consultation with the community and key stakeholders. The Grampians and Lake Fyans is recognised as a premier tourist destination and we will be working with Grampians tourism and local government in developing a future strategy for Lake Fyans Holiday Park beyond 2031.

The Lake Fyans Recreation Reserve Committee of Management is currently involved in legal proceedings with the current lessee. As this matter is before the courts, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.

16/04/2026

HONOURABLE MENTION | Each month, we’ll be sharing one of our Honourable Mentions from the 2026 Community Photo Competition.

Congratulations to Glenda Smith for her stunning night‑time photo of Taylors Lake 🌙✨

Glenda has received a $100 gift voucher in recognition of her impressive entry.

Well done, Glenda!

To view other honourable mentions, as well as our winning entry, visit 👉 gwmwater.org.au/photocompetition

13/04/2026

OFFICE CLOSED – WEDNESDAY 15 APRIL | Our call centre and reception will be closed on Wednesday 15 April while our customer service team attend off‑site training.

The training is all about building the skills, confidence and knowledge to better support customers who may be experiencing vulnerability, so when you call us, we can make sure you get the right care and support.

💬 General enquiries will be responded to when we’re back on Thursday
🚨 For difficulties and faults, please call 1800 188 586 anytime of the day
💡 Need to pay your bill? You can still make a payment at Australia Post as usual

Thanks for your understanding while we invest in our people to better support our community 💙

12/04/2026

JOIN US | Phil the Bucket is showing off his musical prowess at Kannamaroo Festival Horsham!

Come down to say Happy 18th Birthday and grab a bucket before 2 pm! ✨️

10/04/2026

YOU'RE INVITED | Join us for our upcoming Customer & Stakeholder Workshop ✨️

Date: Friday 24 April 2026
Time: 9.30 am - 1 pm (lunch included)
Location: Horsham Golf Club (or option to join online)

Register your attendance here 👉 gwmwater.org.au/stakeholderworkshop

We look forward to seeing you there!