Tarago Reservoir
Better Boating Victoria is working in partnership with Melbourne Water, the Department of Environment, Energy and Climate Action, Baw Baw Shire Council and other agencies to implement the Victorian Government’s election commitment to open up Tarago Reservoir to on-water access for recreational boating and fishing.
The project involves upgrades to water treatment facilities and the construction of a boat ramp to enable on-water access.
We are pleased to advise that the detailed design for the ten-space car park and toilet block at the North Jindivick Road entrance to the reservoir has been finalised following a range of site-specific investigations including geotechnical reporting as well as ecological and arborist reporting.
The North Jindivick Road location was identified, and subsequently confirmed by Government in 2024, as the most suitable location for the new boat ramp, following a detailed multi-criteria assessment that considered a range of factors such as environmental conditions, cultural heritage, public access and cost. To safeguard water quality, petrol motors will not be permitted on vessels used at Tarago Reservoir.
Construction of the boating facilities is expected to commence mid-2026 and be completed by October/November 2026.
Melbourne Water has successfully completed water treatment upgrades to the Tarago treatment plant, whilst Gippsland Water has successfully completed water treatment upgrades to the Warragul and Neerim South treatment plants. Melbourne Water will also install on-water safety and water quality protection infrastructure at Tarago Reservoir, including buoy lines and signage.
To support the opening of Tarago Reservoir for on-water recreation and the operation of a new boat ramp, Melbourne Water is developing a Recreational Area Management Plan and Waterway rules. These will ensure that recreational access is introduced safely, sustainably and in line with drinking water protection requirements. The plan will outline rules to safeguard water quality, including identifying permitted activities (such as electric motor vessels, portable canoes and kayaks), specifying non‑permitted activities (such as camping and bushwalking), and establish requirements for site security and access management, among other considerations.
Engagement on the Recreational Area Management Plan and Waterway Rules will commence shortly, and Melbourne Water invites your participation—your feedback is important.
What activities will be allowed?
Electric and non-powered vessels for boating and fishing.
Swimming, stand-up paddle boarding, use of inflatables (tyres/lilos/inflatables), camping, bushwalking, horse riding and other such activities, as well as animals/pets are not permitted.
Why are petrol motors not allowed?
To protect drinking water quality. Technical assessments confirmed vessels must be free of petrol motors and petrol related components (fuel cells) to ensure non-pollution of the drinking water supply.
Why is swimming not allowed?
The difference between boating and swimming is the amount of contact with the water, referred to as ‘primary’ and ‘secondary’ contact. Activities that involve immersion in the water are called ‘primary’ contact activities and pose a greater risk to water quality than activities where there is only occasional contact with the water, referred to as ‘secondary’ contact.
For example, swimming is a primary contact activity, while boating is a secondary contact activity. This is because a person is not generally in contact with the water while boating, but may have contact for a brief period.
When will engagement occur?
Late February 2026 onwards.
How will community be updated on the Project?
Bi-monthly email updates will be circulated to community members from February through to Project completion. Community and stakeholder sessions including through the Neerim District Progress Association will occur in the period February to June 2026.
How will water quality and safety be managed?
MW has completed water treatment upgrades to the Tarago treatment plant and Gippsland Water (GW) has completed water treatment upgrades to the Warragul and Neerim South treatment plants.
MW will also install on-water safety and water quality protection infrastructure at Tarago Reservoir, including buoy lines and signage.
Waterway rules, site and access security, and patrols will protect water quality and public safety.
Who is developing the Recreational Area Management Plan and Waterway Rules?
MW is leading development of the Recreational Area Management Plan with DEECA; Waterway Rules are being developed with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
When will the boat ramp be built?
Tender Q1–Q2 (Jan-Jun) 2026; construction Q3–Q4 (Jul-Dec) 2026.
Will there be signage and online updates?
Yes. Signage and MW/BBV web pages will provide updates and FAQs.
If you have a questions about this project, please phone or email us:
Ph: 131 722
Email: enquiry@melbournewater.com.au
For additional information, please visit:
Recreation at Tarago Reservoir | Let’s Talk | Melbourne Water