Fascine maintenance deed to be renegotiated following study

The Department of Transport (DoT) continues to work collaboratively with the Shire of Carnarvon to fully investigate short and longer-term solutions that provide improved vessel access to the ocean from the Fascine.

DoT Director Coastal Facilities Donna West said meetings with the Shire had been very productive and included discussions about the Fascine’s ongoing management and maintenance dredging which is the subject of a Management Deed and Agreement signed with the Minister for Transport in 1995.

“The parties discussed possible changes to the Deed, including the possibility of DoT taking some responsibility with the Shire for Fascine maintenance dredging in recognition of the location of the DoT boat ramp within the Fascine,” Ms West said.

“However, a renegotiation of the Deed could only commence following the completion of the current study, expected this year, to determine the best long-term solution for the Fascine access issues.

“DoT is working with the Shire providing ongoing hydrographic surveys and satellite photography to better understand of the changes in the waterway and a further technical study led by the Shire will set a way forward for all parties working in collaboration.” 

The Shire of Carnarvon received a grant of $38,250 from DoT’s Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme in 2017-18 to fund a study to identify options for optimal permanent solutions to Fascine access issues.

Ms West said the meeting also acknowledged the ongoing work and commitment of volunteers from the Carnarvon Yacht Club who have implemented a trial dredging campaign.

“When the study is complete it will set out a scope of works necessary to reinstate a navigable ocean channel and establish a cost estimate for those works which will then allow funding options to be explored,” Ms West said.

DoT has reopened the Carnarvon Boat Harbour boat ramp which provides ocean access for small vessels.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au