Track water storage, capacity and historical trends for major reservoirs in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and beyond.
The current volume at Wellington is running lower than standard operational thresholds. At 35.5%, the facility only holds 185 GL. This lower-than-average capacity may trigger preliminary water-saving advisories in Western Australia if dry conditions persist.
Fed primarily by the Collie River, this reservoir plays a critical role in the South West Coast drainage division. Hydrological health in this specific drainage basin is vital for downstream ecosystems. The South West Coast region relies heavily on the seasonal inflows captured here.
Beyond standard municipal supply, Wellington is a vital asset for the regional agricultural economy in Western Australia. The local economy, heavily rooted in agriculture, fluctuates in tandem with the health of this reservoir. Without the buffer provided by this massive 185 GL storage, regional farming would face extreme volatility.
Ecologically, the reservoir and its immediate wetlands serve as a crucial habitat for native Australian wildlife. During periods of healthy water levels, the area often sees an increase in recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. However, environmental flow releases must be carefully balanced to protect downstream river health.
Current local temperatures are sitting at a moderate 18°C. With 0mm of recent rainfall and clear sky skies, the catchment is relatively dry today.
The Bureau of Meteorology's climate outlooks will play a pivotal role in predicting the future inflows for this catchment. State water authorities utilize highly sophisticated monitoring tools to ensure every drop is accounted for. Given the unpredictable nature of Australia's climate, from La Niña flooding to El Niño droughts, maintaining a dynamic operational strategy for Wellington is absolutely essential.