Forrestdale Lake - boardwalk replacement
2181. Hon Alison Xamon to the Minister for Environment
I refer to the timber boardwalk at Forrestdale Lake, a RAMSAR Convention wetland of international significance. The boardwalk was built as a LEAP Project in the 1990’s, unfortunately burnt down in 2003, has been awaiting replacement ever since, and I ask the following -
(1) Can the Minister please explain why it has taken this long to start working on a replacement boardwalk?
(2) When does the Minister expect that this boardwalk will be completed?
(3) Is the Minister aware of the impending 20 year anniversary of the Friends of Forrestdale, a volunteer organization registered with the Department of Environment and Conservation in late April?
(4) Will the Minister undertake to ensure the boardwalk is completed in time for the celebration of this important anniversary, approximately mid year, once water has returned to the lake?
Hon DONNA FARAGHER replied:
(1) Of the many capital works programs being funded by the Liberal-National Government for visitor facilities, I can advise that the Forrestdale boardwalk project is now proceeding as a jointly funded project between DEC and the City of Armadale.
(2) DEC has completed the major pile driving and the majority of prefabrication works for the boardwalk and is currently awaiting the installation of limestone footings to enable the installation of the final structure. The boardwalk is expected to be completed by the end of June 2010, subject to suitable weather conditions.
(3) I have been made aware by DEC and the member for Darling Range, Tony Simpson, of the important role of the Friends of Forrestdale in assisting with the management and monitoring of the environment of Lake Forrestdale over the past 19 years.
(4) I will be happy to discuss with DEC and the Friends of Forrestdale the prospect of taking part in an official opening when the project is complete.