Wilson Inlet sandbar set to be opened this week

A channel connecting Denmark’s Wilson Inlet to the Southern Ocean is expected to be opened on Wednesday, 6 August following a meeting between stakeholders.

The opening, which typically takes place most years between June to September, helps preserve ecological values within the inlet and protects the wider catchment from flooding.

Water Corporation, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER), Shire of Denmark and City of Albany agreed to timeframes last week (Friday, 1 August) after water levels rose to the minimum required to trigger an opening.

Plant equipment will be moved onto Ocean Beach tomorrow (Tuesday, 5 August) in preparation for Wednesday’s opening, which could be brought forward in the event of heavy rainfall.

“There is a degree of flexibility with timing, particularly given expected rain over the week,” said Water Corporation Great Southern Manager Adrian Stewart.

“If the date does change, we’ll let the community know in advance, but the current plan is to open the sandbar from 10.30am Wednesday.

“As well as being an interesting spectacle, the opening is really important both in terms of maintaining the health of the inlet and protecting the wider area from flooding.”

Mr Stewart said the opening usually attracted community interest and precautions would be taken to ensure public safety.

“We want to remind surfers to be mindful of the potential for changeable conditions in the area due to the increased exchange of water between Wilson Inlet and the ocean,” he said.

The sandbar opening is governed by a framework developed by DWER and agreed to by key stakeholders.

Media contact: GSR.Communications@watercorporation.com.au