mmg.com.au

Sun Country On the Murray has demanded answers for poor water levels along the Murray River at Christmas.

The board’s director, Gary Hunt, wrote a letter to the Murray-Darling Basin Authority about the issue, which greatly impacted tourists, locals and businesses.

He said water was drawn from the region and the local tourism board was not told.

‘‘Drawing down the river without notice to those who will be affected has left tourism business operators with a very poor impression of the decisions that are being made by the MDBA,’’ he said.

The board has demanded better communication, information and an explanation.

‘‘Those making these sorts of decisions may have no idea of the ramifications for the tourism industry — it is reminiscent of the roadworks that were scheduled for the West Gate Bridge commencing Boxing Day,’’ Mr Hunt said.

The board’s biggest concern is that tourists have been left with a tarnished view of the region and will not return.

‘‘It seems to be such a senseless act and it has caused a lot of negative reaction from campers and boaters,’’ he said.

The tourism board have not yet received a response to the letter.