THE public, including frustrated farmers and irrigators, discussed their thoughts on the Murray-Darling Basin with the interim inspector-general of the basin’s water resources, Mick Keelty, in Swan Hill yesterday.
Mr Keelty is holding a number of public forums to discuss the river management with communities in the southern basin to compile a report on Murray-Darling Basin water resources.
Mr Keelty is also conducting one-on-one meetings with stakeholders.
Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) has supported the inquiry.
A MDBA spokesperson told The Guardian they particularly welcomed and supported the Murray-Darling Basin Agreement outlining how water was shared between the states.
“Mick Keelty brings fresh eyes to water policy and has done some great work in the northern basin,” the spokesperson said.
“He’s well-regarded in rural and regional communities.”
The spokesperson said the open town hall sessions were an opportunity to tell the inspector what was and wasn’t working, and how river operations impacted their lives and businesses.
“We will co-operate fully with the inquiry and provide Mick with any information he requires to complete his work,” the spokesperson said.
