“Run-off from Pranjip Creek after the recent heavy rain in that area is now entering the Goulburn,” Goulburn Broken CMA River and Wetland Health Program Manager Mark Turner said.

“This run-off includes leaf litter and other debris, which causes the discolouration. Our staff and other agencies have been out monitoring dissolved oxygen levels - a measure of water quality that affects fish and crayfish health - at various sites along the Goulburn River and found the levels are fine at this time.  The dark creek water will move down the river and slowly dissipate.”

A similar event occurred early last month after heavy localised rainfall in parts of the catchment.

Mr Turner said Goulburn Broken CMA staff would continue to work with Goulburn-Murray Water and Goulburn Valley Water to monitor water quality. 

 “Water is currently being delivered along the Goulburn River from Goulburn Weir to the Murray River for irrigation and urban consumption,” Mr Turner said.

“On the way to these water users, the water is also meeting the river’s base flow requirements to help maintain water quality and to support native fish, water bugs and vegetation.”

Goulburn Broken CMA can be contacted on 5822 7700 or email reception@gbcma.vic.gov.au