Works are underway to construct the new Tarago Reservoir Boat Launching Facility
Recreational boaters and fishers can look forward to on-water access at Tarago Reservoir, with construction of the new boat ramp now underway. Construction of the facility is scheduled to take four months and will be completed in late 2026 subject to weather conditions.
The project will see a new boat ramp constructed alongside a toilet block and parking for up to ten cars with trailers.
Home to large wild brown trout and native blackfish, Tarago Reservoir is also a source of drinking water so only non-powered watercraft and boats with electric motors will be able to launch at the new ramp once completed.
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.
In addition to upgrades to water treatment facilities and the construction of a boat ramp to enable on-water access, Melbourne Water will also install on-water safety and water quality protection infrastructure at the reservoir, including buoy lines and signage.
Following a detailed multi-criteria assessment that considered a range of factors such as environmental conditions, cultural heritage, public access and cost, the North Jindivick Road location was identified, and subsequently confirmed by Government in 2024, as the most suitable location for the new boat ramp.
Construction of the boating facilities is expected to conclude in late 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.
Melbourne Water is preparing the Recreational Area Management Plan for Tarago Reservoir. This outlines how a recreational area will be managed, including:
The requirements for the plan are established in the Water (Recreational Area) Regulations 2023 Act.
The draft Recreational Area Management Plan and proposed Waterway Rules guide the activities permitted at Tarago Reservoir, and how restrictions will be enforced.
They support visitors’ safe enjoyment of the reservoir, while:
Finalising the management plan and waterway rules
In March 2026 MW heard from community and stakeholders on the draft Recreational Area Management Plan and proposed Waterway Rules for Tarago Reservoir.
Read the engagement summary webpage for the key findings and a link to the full engagement report.
The MW team is now working on embedding this feedback into the final management documents that will be shared later this year.
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?
Construction is anticipated to run from August-December 2026.
Will there be signage and online updates?
Yes. Signage and MW/BBV web pages will provide updates and FAQs.
Ramp design: Tarago Reservoir Boat Ramp
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