Coronial inquiry into the Gracetown tragedy

2/5/97

The State Government today welcomed the findings of the Coronial inquiry into the Gracetown tragedy as a positive move towards minimising the risk of similar incidents.

Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes said all Western Australians were deeply shocked by the tragedy that claimed nine lives last September.

"Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, their friends and the surrounding communities," Mrs Edwardes said.

She said the Coroner's recommendations were valuable in that they gave clear focus for future action so far as management of coastal areas was concerned.

"The Government accepts the recommendations and will give full and urgent consideration to their implementation," the Minister said.

"I have asked the Department of Conservation and Land Management to work closely with the WA Municipal Association to assist local councils in respect to the recommendations.

"The Government will work with all agencies, local councils and the community to try to prevent such an event occurring again."

Media contact: Diana Russell Coote 421 7777