NRAR responds to incident in Lake Albert

In January of this year, the Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) received a complaint in relation to an alleged unlawful structure in Lake Albert, Wagga Wagga.

Following the complaint, NRAR commenced a thorough investigation and issued a penalty notice to a private citizen from the Wagga Wagga region.

Gregory Abood, Director Water Regulation (West) at NRAR, says he is happy to see this matter resolved.

“As soon as we received this complaint, we commenced a thorough investigation, which we’ve now concluded. We understand the importance of Lake Albert to the community of Wagga Wagga and worked hard to finalise this matter,” Mr Abood said.

“Water laws exist to protect and preserve our natural ecosystems, but this can only happen when we all follow the rules.

“Unlawful water take and diverting a water source is a serious offence that can threaten supplies for other communities and the environment.”

Mr Abood concluded by stating NRAR takes allegations of noncompliance seriously because communities across NSW have said they want fair, transparent and enforceable water compliance.

To see the work NRAR does, go to its public register on the NRAR website industry.nsw.gov.au/nrar. Go to ‘Reports and data’, then ‘NRAR Public Register’.

To make a confidential report on suspected water misuse, contact the NRAR Hotline on 1800 633 362 or email nrar.enquiries@nrar.nsw.gov.au.