The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) has begun the Lake Burrumbeet Futures Project which aims to guide a united approach to future management of the lake region.

Groups including the Wadawurrung, City of Ballarat, Friends of Lake Burrumbeet, Parks Victoria, Victorian Fisheries Authority, Central Highlands Water, Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority, CFA and Lake Burrumbeet Ski Club will guide future management arrangements.

DELWP Grampians regional manager community and partnership programs Kathryn Campbell said DELWP met with the Friends of Lake Burrumbeet group last week.

“The next step is a combined project partner workshop being held next month to share information, discuss issues and develop a collaborative way forward for engaging the broader community,” Ms Campbell said.  

“This group will map out how as a collective it will consult with the broader community about their aspirations.” 

Friends of Lake Burrumbeet spokesperson Susan Moodie said one of the core issues facing the lake was human activity.

She also said it was key that youth was involved in any discussion about the lake going forward as young people would be future caretakers of the waterway.

Ms Campbell said community consultation will take place over the summer months.  

“DELWP, with its partners, will be listening to the community to gain an understanding of their future expectations,” she said.  

“From this, a sustainable approach to managing the lake which considers its cultural, natural and social values will be developed. “ 

Shorter term improvements including increased compliance, and signage and road works will also set to be completed.

READ MORE: Time to put Burrumbeet back on the agenda

Have you signed up to The Courier's daily newsletter and breaking news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.