22/05/25 Inland Waterways Forum kicks off

The LSV Inland Waterways Forum will take place in Bendigo this week, focusing on drowning prevention activities for rivers, lakes, dams and other inland waterways across the state. 

The forum will bring together government agencies, land and waterway managers, emergency services, the aquatic industry, as well as support sectors and agencies such as tourism to address this important issue, particularly for Victoria’s rural and regional communities. 

The event will be an opportunity for participants to collaborate and share knowledge and insights to help forge a coordinated whole-of-community approach to better inland waterway safety.  

Almost a third (28 per cent) of all fatal drowning incidents in the 2024/25 financial year so far have occurred at inland waterways. This trend remains stubbornly high across the medium and long term, requiring a targeted and collaborative approach.  

LSV General Manager - Aquatic Capability, Andy Dennis said the Inland Waterways Forum was a key opportunity to examine the factors that contribute to drownings and water-related injuries and find solutions.  

“There are a range of factors contributing to drowning fatalities in inland waterways, and we must work as a community to address these,” Mr. Dennis said. 

“That’s why we need everyone to come together and do what they can to drive down the number of drownings we’re seeing across Victorian communities. One drowning is one too many.”  

The forum will run at the All Seasons Resort on Thursday, May 22. 

This event is being delivered by Life Saving Victoria as part of Inland Communities Water Safety Program with the support of the Royal Life Saving Australia and the Australian Government. 

For further information contact the LSV Media team: media@lsv.com.au or 03 9676 6970.