For generations, the Coutts family has farmed in the Lake Bolac district, building a mixed farming operation around sheep, cropping and fine Merino wool production.

But like many farmers across the region, reliable water has become increasingly difficult to depend on during dry seasons.

Now, thanks to the East Grampians Rural Pipeline Project, landowner Rob Coutts says access to a secure water supply is providing greater confidence for both the farm's future and the wider community.

A third-generation farmer, Rob and his family balance livestock and cropping operations, with half the property dedicated to each enterprise.

Rob said water was fundamental to every aspect of the business. "Water is essential. We can't do anything without it," he said.

Before connecting to the pipeline, the farm relied heavily on rainfall runoff to fill dams.

"Towards the end of summer, there was always pressure to find water for stock," Rob said.

In very dry years, the family would move water between dams to keep stock supplied.

"In summers past, I've had to pump water from dam to dam," he said.

The arrival of the pipeline has provided a new level of water security, reducing dependence on seasonal conditions and ensuring a reliable supply for both livestock and spraying operations.

"Having water security means I can increase livestock numbers and have a cleaner source of water for spraying," Rob said.

As well as strengthening farming operations, the pipeline is delivering important benefits for fire preparedness.

A long-serving CFA member, Rob understands the critical role reliable water supplies play during emergencies.

Reflecting on the fires of January 2026, he said uncertainty around available water sources created additional challenges for firefighting efforts.

"We didn't know where we could get water from. It was mostly unavailable," he said.

"Knowing where we can get a reliable water source is very important."

For Rob, the East Grampians Rural Pipeline Project is about more than supporting farm productivity. It provides peace of mind, improved drought resilience, and greater confidence that both farming operations and emergency response efforts can be supported when they are needed most.