Heatwave high water users
27 January 2026
As the extreme heat continues over the coming days, we’re encouraging everyone to stay cool — and use water wisely.
Heatwaves often lead to a sharp increase in water use. This puts extra pressure on our treatment plants and can make it harder for them to keep up with demand, especially in smaller towns.
Here’s how much water our highest using towns used yesterday compared to a typical hot summer day:
- Beechworth – 4.4 million litres (usually 2.5)
- Myrtleford – 3.2 million litres (usually 2.5)
- Rutherglen–Wahgunyah – 6.3 million litres (usually 4.4)
- Yarrawonga – 13.3 million litres — the highest usage on record (usually 10)
- Bright – 4.6 million litres (usually 3.6)
A few simple choices can help protect the community's water supplies:
- Keep showers short and refreshing
- Water gardens only early in the morning or later in the evening to reduce evaporation
- Avoid unnecessary outdoor water use, like washing cars
- Follow the Permanent Water Saving Rules
If you spot a leak or burst water main, please report it anytime on 1300 361 644.
Find more water saving tips here.