Work begins on Vasse Estuary sediment project

• Cook Labor Government provides $320,000 towards sediment removal project in the Vasse Estuary, near Busselton.
• Removal of sediment to improve liveability for nearby residents

A sediment removal program is now under way near James Richardson Park, adjacent to the Vasse Estuary.

The project is expected to remove approximately 64 tonnes of sediment along the bank of the Vasse Estuary Channel at Estuary View Drive, in Wonnerup.

Sediment has accumulated in the waterways over many years and is linked to odours in the summer months.

The new program, which follows a number of short-term projects, aims to improve liveability for residents in the longer term.

Water Corporation will lead the delivery of the sediment removal project, which will occur along a 220-metre stretch of the shoreline.

It is estimated that up to 330 cubic metres of sediment will be removed using a vacuum pump.

Sediment will then be trucked off-site to the Busselton Wastewater Treatment Plant for drying and treatment.

The Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands are a unique and significant natural asset in the Busselton region, recognised internationally for their importance as waterbird habitat.

This project is part of the Revitalising Geographe Waterways program, which aims to improve water quality in Geographe waterways and is overseen by the Vasse Taskforce.

The project is also part of the State Government's $25 million Healthy Estuaries WA program.

The sediment removal project has been developed by the Vasse Wonnerup Wetlands Partnership, who oversee management of the wetlands.

Key partners include Departments of Water and Environmental Regulation, Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, Primary Industries and Regional Development, as well as the City of Busselton and Water Corporation.

More information on the projects being delivered through the Revitalising Geographe Waterways program can be found at https://rgw.dwer.wa.gov.au/

Comments attributed to Water Minister Simone McGurk:

"This new program aims to strike a balance that will both alleviate odours for Estuary View Drive residents in summer, without risking the important conservation values of the wetlands.

"It is hoped that this new project will provide longer-term relief to residents by directly addressing the source of the odour coming from sediments in the Vasse Estuary."

Comments attributed to Vasse Taskforce chair Pierre Yang:

"A strong collaborative approach between Vasse Taskforce agencies has helped to bring this project to fruition.

"Sediment removal will help address community concerns about liveability, visual amenity, and odour for residents.

"The project will also improve our understanding of the effectiveness of removing sediments to reduce smells in this important waterway system."