Adelaide River Water Advisory Committee kicks off 2026

After a well‑earned break following meeting 6, the Adelaide River Water Advisory Committee reconvened on 10 March for meeting 7. Refreshed and ready to reflect on lessons learned from 2025 that helped shape a stronger, clearer planning pathway for 2026. The meeting focused on shared learning, improving planning processes, and strengthening collaboration across science, engagement and cultural values in the year ahead.

Members explored what they want to see from ongoing science and planning work, including how to maximise the benefits of a session later in the year with the CSIRO Adelaide River Ecohydrological Technical Advisory Panel who are preparing an ecohydrological risk assessment. They also discussed ways to improve engagement across the catchment and strengthen communications about the plan during the next 12 months.

The committee reviewed real‑world observations from this very wet season. Water Resources Division provided some real time data, comparing Cyclone Fina’s effect on the catchment in November 2025 with current conditions. Members discussed where they observed alignment between model predictions and the scientific insights gained over the past 18 months.

Power and Water Corporation and the Department of Logistics and Infrastructure provided updates on Manton Dam Return to Service and progress on the Adelaide RIver Off-stream Water Storage concept design and environmental assessment.

The meeting closed with members reflecting on shared insights and identifying opportunities for improvement in 2026. Overall, the committee acknowledged growing confidence in understanding the catchment’s behaviour, while recognising that there is much work ahead to develop the water plan.

You can recap on the progress of the Water Advisory Committee online at Adelaide River Water Advisory Committee meetings.

To stay informed on the water plan, go to the Water Security website or email us at waterresources.dlpe@nt.gov.au.