GVW has determined this measure could be necessary to protect local water storages, which have continued to fall since the introduction of stage two restrictions in May.
Water storages sat at 18 per cent on June 13, compared to 77 per cent at a similar time last year.
GVW managing director Steve Capewell thanked residents and visitors for their ongoing efforts to limit their water use.
“Euroa and Violet Town communities have a great understanding of the need to use water efficiently and wisely, and we very much appreciate their efforts to conserve valuable supplies,” Dr Capewell said.
“Unfortunately, storages continue to be impacted by this record-breaking stretch of low rainfall.
“If dry conditions continue, stage four restrictions will be needed to further reduce pressure on drinking water supplies.”
Rather than introducing stage three restrictions, GVW is asking residents to further reduce their water use voluntarily.
This decision has been made to give the community more options to reduce water use before stage four restrictions are put in place.
“If we see a good result from the community response, we may be able to delay the implementation of stage four restrictions,” Dr Capewell said.
GVW started delivering treated drinking water to Euroa and Violet Town before stage two water restrictions were introduced, to supplement supply.
A small-diameter water outlet remains open at the Euroa standpipe for small rural users, providing limited access to drinking water for their essential needs.
Bulk drinking water outlets at the standpipes (where approved users can purchase and collect bulk drinking water) in Euroa and Violet Town closed when stage two water restrictions began, and will remain closed until restrictions are lifted.
Local water carters are being supported to source water elsewhere to continue servicing rural communities.
The Euroa purple standpipe, which delivers recycled water for public spaces and construction works, remains open.
GVW has been encouraging residents to use water wisely at ongoing community pop-ups in Euroa and Violet Town.
The initiative will continue to promote opportunities for customers to save water, providing water conservation giveaways such as hose trigger nozzles, shower timers and water-efficient shower heads.
The main differences between stage two and four water restrictions relate to outdoor water use limitations. Lawns and gardens cannot be watered at any time, pools and spas cannot be filled or topped up and cleaning hard surfaces and washing vehicles is not allowed, unless necessary for health and safety reasons.
Residential demand accounts for most of the water use across the GVW region, meaning household changes can have a big collective impact.
By making simple changes, such as taking shorter showers and only running dishwashers and washing machines with full loads, water customers can significantly lower their water use.
For tips on how to save water, visit gvwater.vic.gov.au/save-water/
Further information on water restriction stages can be found at gvwater.vic.gov.au/restrictions/ or customers can call 5832 4800.
