Numurkah residents concerned over poor lake conditions

By Gabriel Garcia

May 24, 2024

State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe with concerned Numurkah residents at Lake Numurkah. Photo by Contributed

State Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe recently met with concerned community members over the poor condition of Lake Numurkah.

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“For many years, the community have been advocating for improving the lake, and it has been a drawn-out, slow process,” Ms O’Keeffe said.

Residents Pauline Bright and Peter Kam expressed their frustration and the continuous problems they’ve faced trying to seek information and improvements.

They said the poor conditions, overgrowth of aquatic plants and restricted recreational use had been long-standing concerns with the community.

Ms O'Keeffe has been in contact with Moira Shire Council chief executive officer Matthew Morgan and was pleased with his response.

“Mr Morgan informed me that plans for the lake were placed on hold while the council wait on the findings of the Draft Numurkah North-East Catchment Management Strategy as well as the necessary environmental considerations,” Ms O'Keeffe said.

“He has also said that there will be consultations regarding the lake, and he has clarified that the aquatic plant referred to as a weed by the residents is actually protected water milfoil and requires planning permission with supporting environmental management plans before being disturbed.

The residents noted that cutting had been done elsewhere, making significant improvements.

Ms O’Keeffe said she was committed to working with Moira Shire Council, all stakeholders and the community to ensure that Lake Numurkah can be restored to a condition that the community can enjoy and be proud of.