NSW SES is reminding residents that the Murray River is closed to river craft downstream of Tocumwal Bridge to Barham Bridge, after an emergency area was declared on 18 October due to the current flooding along the river.
Under section 22 of the SES Act people are directed as follows:
- Leave the emergency area
- Do not enter the emergency area
NSW SES Southern Zone Incident Controller, Superintendent Benjamin Pickup, said the emergency area applies to all commercial and recreational users of the rivers.
"As part of the declaration no boats can enter the emergency area and people cannot enter the area for any recreational purpose such as fishing or swimming," he said.
"The declaration of the emergency area applies to all residents on both sides of the border. Neither NSW or Victorian users are permitted on the river at this time.
"This emergency area has been put in place to ensure the safety of our community during the flooding period. There is a significant amount of water moving along the river and the safest option at the moment is to avoid the area.
"It is disappointing to see people continuing to use the river for recreation activities when it is at such high levels and nearing its peak.
"NSW Maritime and NSW Police will patrol the area while it is subject to the declared emergency area."
Emergency Services, Transport for NSW and council personnel are permitted to access the declared emergency area for emergency operational activity related to the flooding event and enforcement activities.
For emergency assistance in floods and storms call NSW SES on 132 500
