Low water levels at Beaufort Lake will not noticeably impact visitation to the town this summer, Pyrenees Shire Council’s tourism manager says.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
But unless there is a big downpour before the end of the month, it is unlikely power boats will be permitted on the water this ski season.
Water skiing is usually permitted at the lake from December to April 30 if the water level is sufficient.
Pyrenees Shire Council manager economic development and tourism Ray Davies visited the lake on Friday to inspect water levels.
“Water levels are getting down a little bit compared to what we would like to see,” he said.
“Unless there is significant rainfall by the end of this month it is going to be unlikely boats will get on the lake this season, but plenty of things can happen in spring with extreme weather events, and that is usually when the lake fills. In 2016 we had some flood events around this time of year and that is when we saw the lake come back to being full.”
Beaufort Lake is used for fishing, boating, skiing and swimming during summer months providing adequate water levels.
It is an attraction asset but also a great lifestyle asset for the local community.
- Ray Davis, Pyrenees Shire Council
Jet skis are not permitted on the lake and if power boats are allowed, it is only ever two at a time due to its relatively small size.
Mr Davies said low water levels could mean a decrease in visitation for fishing and boating, but it would continue to remain a popular spot for other activities.
A walking track, art installations and exercise stations regularly draw community members to the lake.
“They are valued assets by the local community but also patrons of the caravan park,” Mr Davies said.
“It is an attraction asset but also a great lifestyle asset for the local community.”
Mr Davies said broadly Beaufort was a popular destination for visitors during summer.
“Like many small towns during daylight savings period, that is when we see the higher levels of visitation to the caravan park,” he said.
The Beaufort Lake Caravan Park was full at the weekend for the Lake Goldsmith Steam Rally. But a broader tourism focus is also hoped to increase visitation.
Work on the Grampians Pyrenees Wine and Culinary Tourism Plan and Grampians Region Cycling Masterplan is underway.
“Cycle tourism and wine and food are the areas of focus at the present time tourism wise,” Mr Davies said.
“Exciting things are about the unfold in the food and drink space that will elevate the profile of the wine regions, a number of small producers and hospitality venues that are well worth a look.”
Pyrenees Shire Council will advise the community on a decision on power boats at Lake Beaufort toward the end of spring.
RELATED COVERAGE:
Have you signed up to The Courier's variety of news emails? You can register below and make sure you are up to date with everything that's happening in Ballarat.