Water Corporation issues important warning not to fish or recreate near Ord River Diversion Dam

Published on Monday, 22 June 2020 at 2:04:29 PM

Water Corporation and the Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley is reminding the Kununurra community not to enter restricted areas at the Ord River Diversion Dam.

Water Corporation North West Regional Manager, Sharon Broad, said signage and fencing was in place to prevent access to restricted areas, however, some people continued to ignore the many warnings.

“People who scale the fence and fish on the banks of the Ord River risk being swept into turbulent water or attacked by a saltwater crocodile, resulting in serious injury or even death,” Mrs Broad said.

“Signs and marker buoys clearly mark restricted areas, which include the entire Ord River Diversion Dam wall, and extend 100 metres upstream and 200 metres downstream of the dam.

“No one is permitted in the restricted areas, even in boats, and people caught trespassing may attract a substantial fine.

Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley President, Cr David Menzel, said people continue to put themselves at risk by ignoring warning signs and entering restricted areas.

“Sadly, fatalities have occurred in the past, and we do not want any member of our community to put themselves at risk,” Cr Menzel said.

“Living in a fishing destination like Kununurra means there are plenty of fantastic places to fish, including iconic locations like Lake Kununurra and Pentecost River.

“We encourage everyone to venture out and explore the many safe and exciting fishing destinations that Kununurra and the wider East Kimberley offers.”

For more information on boating and fishing in Kununurra visit the Kununurra Visitor’s Centre or visitkununurra.com

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