The NSW and Australian governments are inviting the Bermagui community to help shape the long term future of the town’s water supply. A preliminary business case is now underway to assess options for strengthening Bermagui water security across the Brogo-Bermagui supply system.
Bermagui, Quaama, Cobargo and Fairhaven all rely on Brogo River and Brogo Dam. Under current operating arrangements, the system is vulnerable during extended dry periods, prompting renewed planning work as climate change increases uncertainty around inflows and river performance.
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What the new business case means for Bermagui water security
The preliminary business case will consider a wide range of options to improve reliability and drought resilience. These include adjusting current operational reserve rules at Brogo Dam, upgrading or replacing the weir and offtake, upgrading the Brogo Dam wall and spillway, or building a direct pipeline from the dam to the Brogo Water Treatment Plant to reduce losses and improve reliability.
The work is jointly funded by the Commonwealth and NSW governments, with up to $3 million allocated to complete the business case through the National Water Grid Fund. If approved for delivery, the project could support population growth and economic development across the South Coast region.
Executive Director of Water Infrastructure Lisa Hingerty said the program is only at the beginning of its assessment process. “We are at the start of this process and no decisions have been made,” she said. Hingerty said early engagement is critical. “These sessions are about listening to the community, answering questions and making sure their views shape the options being considered,” she said.
Community input will guide the next steps
Hingerty said the town’s vulnerability to drought underscores the importance of early planning. “Bermagui is particularly vulnerable during droughts, and ensuring reliable water supplies is critical for the town to thrive into the future,” she said. She said the process is designed to build confidence for local households, businesses and visitors. “This project is about giving households, businesses and the community the confidence that water will be there when it is needed most.”
Drop-in sessions will be held in Bermagui and Cobargo on 2 December, with an online webinar also available for those unable to attend in person. Registration is not required for the in-person sessions.
Further information is available on the Bermagui Water Security Project website.