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Markwood/Ovens River Complex

A technical investigation of the Markwood / Ovens complex is currently underway, due for completion at the end of 2024.

The North East CMA has engaged Water Technology a local consulting firm to undertake this investigation that will include a detailed review and analysis of the current geomorphic and floodplain condition, interactions, characteristics and behaviour and management arrangements for the Ovens River and adjoining floodplain network from the Whorouly Creek – Ovens River confluence to the Hodgsons Creek – Ovens River confluence at Tarrawingee. The following questions are a focus of this investigation: 

  1. What is the geomorphic and floodplain condition, interactions, characteristics, and behaviour of the Ovens River system within the project area?  
  2. What are the current management requirements? 
  3. What are the stakeholder concerns and requirements? 
  4. How is the existing and new infrastructure influencing the interactions and behaviour of the Ovens River system?  
  5. What recommendations can be made to achieve the best possible outcomes for river health on a system level, with consideration of community/landholder outcomes? 

The outcome of this technical investigation is the development of  Markwood / Ovens Management recommendations that will set the long-term management objectives for this reach.  This document will be the basis for management decisions and will be used to support funding applications to explain to investors why funding is needed within the project area.

The CMA is aware there are a number of different land uses within the project area and a number of different priorities for land managers. As part of this investigation, a Project Steering Group has been established with landholder representatives from both the left and right banks of the Ovens River as well as representatives from Goulburn Murray Water and the Rural City of Wangaratta.

A map of the project area (confluence of Whorouly Creek and the Ovens River and continued until Tarrawingee) is provided below: 

More information about the upcoming community sessions is detailed below. If you have any queries about this project please contact Kelly Behrens, Manager Program Implementation on 0427 351 411 or kelly.behrens@necma.vic.gov.au


Download the Markwood Spillway Project Information Sheet - June 2024


A number of reports have been completed looking at the Markwood / Ovens river complex and both North East River Alliance (NERA) and non-NERA members have requested access to these reports. To ensure transparency these reports are uploaded to the NECMA website.

The reports have been assessed using the North East CMA Proactive and Informal Release Framework.