The canal, located off Goulburn Weir, is used to transfer water to parts of the Central Goulburn irrigation area and the Waranga Basin water storage.
‘‘The water transfer is controlled by an off-take regulator, which has four radial gates,’’ G-MW dam operations manager Scott Wikman said.
‘‘These gates were installed in 1967 and have come to the end of their operating life.
‘‘Their replacement will ensure the continued reliability of water delivery to our customers.’’
The works, to commence in mid-May with completion expected by early July, will take place during the gravity irrigation off-season and will not affect irrigation customers.
To allow for the works, the Stuart Murray Canal will be drained.
To ensure G-MW can harvest water during this period, G-MW will also temporarily lower Lake Nagambie’s water level by up to 0.5m during the works.
‘‘The lake was lowered by 0.5m in the winter of 2016 for related work on the Stuart Murray Canal and there was negligible impact on the environment, tourism and recreation during the project,’’ Mr Wikman said.
‘‘All stakeholders are again being alerted to the lake lowering in advance of this year’s gate replacement. When the works are complete, the lake will be returned to its normal level.’’
Goulburn Weir and its adjoining recreational area will remain open and accessible throughout the upgrade; however, for safety reasons, the Stuart Murray Canal’s offtake structure, walkover and adjoining car park will be closed from May 24 to July 12.
■For more information about the Stuart Murray Canal offtake regulator upgrade call the Customer Service Centre on 1800 013 357, email reception@gmwater.com.au or visit the website: www.gmwater.com.au/stuartmurraycanal
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