Safety improvements have been completed at Coliban Water’s three main reservoirs near Kyneton.
Malmsbury, Upper Coliban, and Lauriston reservoirs receive thousands of visitors every year for barbecues, picnics, walking or other outdoor activities.
Executive General Manager of Culture and Governance, Rebecca Hanley, said improving safety for visitors and staff is always a priority.
A rock wall along the foreshore area had become unstable at Lauriston Reservoir.
“This area is popular with those who are fishing or having picnics. Our team designed a two-tier graduated rock wall which will be more robust and sustainable for long-term use,” Ms Hanley said.
Upper Coliban Reservoir’s Pathways have new handrails and retaining walls have been installed to prevent erosion.
At Malmsbury Reservoir, a small triangular structure has been installed along the top of a 4m-high concrete ledge to prevent visitors from walking along the top of the wall.
This improvement also reduces the risk of someone falling from the ledge.
“Completing these projects will help keep the community and staff safe at our reservoirs. It’s also timely that these works concluded during National Safe Work Month, which is a great way to highlight the importance of why we do this. These seemingly small changes can have a big impact,” Ms Hanley said.
“People visit our reservoirs for fishing, bird watching, walking and other outdoor activities, and we want them to always be safe.”
“All of these works improve the amenities at our reservoirs,” Ms Hanley said.
Another project aimed at increasing the safety of Coliban Water staff involves introducing body-worn cameras for the reservoir team.
“These will be attached to a vest worn by our reservoir staff members and used when working alone or interacting with the public,” Ms Hanley said.
“Workplace safety is an ongoing process, and we strive for continual improvement and best practice. We must continue to review and improve the safety of our sites for staff and visitors wherever possible.”
For more information on the reservoirs, visit coliban.com.au/about-us/our-reservoirs
Image: Alistair/stock.adobe.com
