There’s good news for the South-West, with Lake Kepwari expected to open this summer.
South-West Minister Mark McGowan said plans to transform the former mining void into one of Western Australia’s biggest freshwater recreational lakes were moving forward.
“With the planning phase complete and the partial surrender of the mining lease back to the State imminent, progress is now being made on finalising designs and tender documentation,” Mr McGowan said.
“We anticipate a late summer opening and that means water-skiers can enjoy everything the lake has to offer.”
Lake Kepwari, 10km east of Collie, is a mining void that has been rehabilitated by Wesfarmers Premier Coal.
It holds about 30 gigalitres of water and is almost two kilometres long, one kilometre wide and up to 70m deep.
Collie-Wellington MLA Mick Murray said plans for the first stage of the project included the development of a boat launching area, swimming beach, parking area, barbecues and shelters.
“There has been strong interest in the project from a number of water recreation groups,” Mr Murray said.
“The lake will be a drawcard to the South-West and raise the profile of Collie.
“It will complement the highly successful Collie Motorplex that was also supported by the State Government in partnership with Wesfarmers Premier Coal.
“It is set to become the centre for water-based recreation in the region.”
The project has received $3.29million from the State Government towards construction of infrastructure and management of the site.
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