By Will Adams
NEW boating rules have come into effect for Lake Nagambie and parts of the Goulburn River from 1 November 2025, aimed at improving safety and supporting a wider range of recreational activities.
Introduced by Safe Transport Victoria following consultation with Strathbogie Shire Council, local enforcement agencies and waterway users, the changes include new speed limits, activity restrictions and clearly signposted zones.
On Lake Nagambie, a 20-knot speed limit now applies to all powered vessels, except in existing five-knot or prohibited zones. Freestyling on jet skis, swimming between Deliah Island and Nagambie Lake Leisure Park, and the use of wake-enhancing devices such as for wakeboarding or wake surfing are now banned. All vessels must travel with minimal or no wash in five-knot areas.
On the Goulburn River, between Hughes Creek and Goulburn Weir, a 30-knot limit now applies to areas previously unrestricted, with exceptions for barefoot water-skiing in designated zones. Several new five-knot areas have been added, including near Nagambie Lakes Leisure Park, at the entrance to Lake Nagambie, and downstream of Verges Jetty. Wake-enhancing devices are also prohibited throughout this section.
Signage and navigation aids have been installed to help boaters follow the new rules. For more information on new rule changes and what rules remain the same, visit the Safe Transport Victoria website: https://safetransport.vic.gov.au/new-rules-for-safer-boating-on-lake-nagambie-waters
