River safety in focus at November Council Meeting

A report recommending ways to improve river safety will be presented to Councillors at the 27 November Ordinary Council Meeting.

Council staff have been working with Royal Lifesaving Australia to conduct an Aquatic Safety Assessment at Wagga Beach in response to a Notice of Motion from Councillor Vanessa Keenan at the January Ordinary Meeting.

After reviewing the assessment, staff have recommended that Council develop an Inland Water Safety Management Plan to address safety in aquatic environments across the Local Government Area, install larger, more prominent signage at Wagga Beach and undertake a seasonal river safety education campaign.

The Royal Lifesaving Society assessment also recommended restricting access to The Rocks, however, Council staff have recommended it remains open to the public due to the high level of utilisation and historical significance.

“The Murrumbidgee River is one of Wagga Wagga’s greatest assets, but it does have inherent risks,” Cr Keenan said.

"The recommendations to Council are designed to ensure the community is aware of those risks and can enjoy the river safely and responsibly.

“It’s important to find a balance between community safety and the amenity of the area, which is why it has been recommended access to The Rocks is maintained but with the installation of prominent signage and community education.”

Councillors will discuss the recommendations at the 27 November Ordinary Meeting, which starts from 6pm.

The business papers can be found on Council’s website.

The community can learn more about inland water safety at www.wagga.nsw.gov.au/riversafety.