Water skiing banned at Wellington Dam

The Department of Transport (DoT) will remove the water ski area and limit access to low powered vessels at Wellington Dam after strong local support for the changes.

DoT Manager of Navigational Safety Mark Briant said the changes, to take effect from 11 October 2022, followed a comprehensive review of the aquatic activities at Wellington Dam, including community consultation, discussions with key local stakeholders and availability of dedicated areas such as Lake Kepwari.

Last November DoT proposed the removal of the water ski area and limiting access to electric powered, sail and paddle craft at the South West waterway as part of the formal Wellington Dam Aquatic Use Review (AUR). 

Nearly 800 people completed an online survey seeking feedback on the proposals, with 40 per cent of respondents supporting the change, including a high proportion of people in the local community. 

Mr Briant said the survey results were one of many considerations in finalising the aquatic use plan for the safe, equitable and sustainable use of the popular waterway.

“Following further discussions with the Shire of Collie and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), the stakeholders who initially sought the changes, there will be a six-horsepower limit on vessels accessing the dam,” Mr Briant said.

“This outcome supports the strong desire of the key local managing authorities to preserve the dam’s natural amenity with only passive activities and will also allow development of potential, future water-based tourism activities. 

"With the gazettal of Lake Kepwari for water skiing in mid-2020 and continued additional availability of areas nearby for water skiing it was determined there is adequate availability for enthusiasts.”

Updated signage will be installed to alert the community and the free Wellington Dam Boating Guide has been updated to reflect the changes. For a copy visit our website or request a copy by contacting DoT on 13 11 56.

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

Photo by Russell Ord