Tuesday, 10 September 2024

Constituency questions

Eildon electorate

Cindy McLEISH (Eildon) (14:41): (800) My question is for the Minister for Water. This year Mount Buller had to close five weeks earlier than expected due to the lack of access to water for the village and snow-making. The limitations on pumping rights led to a loss of revenue and jobs and impacted trade by small businesses in regional Victoria. What work is currently being undertaken by the minister to resolve this issue so that the 2025 season does not suffer a similar fate? Despite an $11.3 million investment to secure water and optimal temperatures for snow-making, the current Goulburn–Murray Water licence is not flexible and does not allow 12-month pumping. This means opportunities to make the most of the spring and summer rains, particularly when Lake Eildon is full, are lost. Alpine resorts in Victoria contribute $2.14 billion annually to the state economy, largely during the snow season. Mount Buller needs a reliable supply of water to underpin the survival of the village and the ski area.