To assess the demand, G-MW is opening orders for Loddon Valley irrigators, earlier than normal, from August 1.
After gauging demand, the water authority will then decide whether rationing is needed.
Loddon irrigators were rationed from March 5 to April 25 this year due to high demand for water.
G-MW water delivery services general manager Warren Blyth said although the Loddon district had recently received rainfall, there was still a chance of high irrigation demand — especially with spring being a peak period for water use in the region.
“As we approach the start of the 2025-26 irrigation season, we want to support customers to prepare for the possibility that the district may enter another rationing cycle,” Mr Blyth said.
The early ordering option is only available to Loddon Valley Irrigation Area customers. All other irrigation customers can place orders from August 10.
G-MW is also encouraging Loddon customers to consider the following ahead of the season starting on August 15:
- How their delivery share is distributed across service points.
- Applying to vary or transfer their delivery shares to ensure continued access. G-MW will continue to waive the application fees associated with varying or transferring delivery shares (Form 35 and 36) for LVIA customers impacted by rationing. Customers can contact G-MW via deliveryshare@gmwater.com.au and request a pre-populated form or a copy of a customer’s Water Register Delivery Share Copy of Record.
- Exploring options for an alternative water source such as buying water from the Loddon water system (trading zone 5A).
“We sought feedback after the rationing event earlier this year from affected customers and the GMID West Customer Committee,” Mr Blyth said.
“The clear message was that customers wanted information early to help them make informed decisions ahead of any possible rationing event, which is why we have contacted customers this week to encourage them to consider their options.”
The Loddon Valley Irrigation Area is supplied via the Waranga Western Channel from the Goulburn system.
High-reliability water share as of July 15 for the Goulburn system was 33 per cent. More rainfall is needed over the coming months to increase storage levels and seasonal determinations.
The next 2025-26 seasonal determination announcement will be released on Friday, August 1.
For more information, Loddon Valley customers can visit G-MW’s dedicated rationing page at www.gmwater.com.au/rationing or call 1800 013 357, or book a one-on-one appointment at: www.gmwater.com.au/contact
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