The Water for Lake Albert group is pinning its hopes on a move to divert water from Tatton drain to the lake, which has been plagued by fluctuating water levels for years.

It comes after The Daily Advertiser last week revealed a bid to sink a successful test bore on the shores of the lake had failed.

In a last-ditch bid to address the issue, Wagga Boat Club and the Water for Lake Albert group secured $30,000 of public money to sink the test bore, but were forced to scrap it after it was emerged the bore would not produce sufficient water.

Despite the experiment’s failure, those involved in the operation are hopeful the new plan, using water from the Tatton drain, could be the answer.

Boat club commodore and Water for Lake Albert founder Mick Henderson said the new plan would see water from the Tatton drain directed into the lake, with the aim of providing stability to the lake’s water levels.

He confirmed the design was being drafted by council and said it was crucial to address the problem.

“It’s so important that we test every option available to us, and we’re very hopeful about this new scheme,” Mr Henderson said. 

“The lake is one of Wagga’s biggest tourist attractions and draws numerous people to participate in events here, so it's very valuable to the city.”

Mr Henderson said low water levels did not only effect events held on the lake, with the Barry Carne cancelled four time in the past 10 years due to insufficient water levels, but also its fragile ecosystem.

Mayor Rod Kendall said the council realised Lake Albert’s significance to the city and was working with the boat club on the Tatton drain plan.

“There a few issues with this plan that need to be looked at, but addressing this issue is a high priority for the council,” he said. 

“The lake is a huge amenity to the city in terms of growing the economy with its events, as well as servicing the whole community.”