Official opening of Dawesville Channel

23/4/94

Premier Richard Court today officially opened the Dawesville Channel, Western Australia's biggest marine environment project, amid colourful celebrations.

In a ceremony on board the sail training ship 'Leeuwin', Mr Court said the $54 million project had been completed eight months ahead of schedule.

The Premier congratulated the State Department of Transport for its role in designing and managing the project.

"The Dawesville Channel is a visionary project which is unique in many respects," Mr Court said.

"The channel was built for environmental reasons, but there will be spin-offs to the community in terms of lifestyle, recreation and tourism - both for the local economy and the State as a whole."

Mr Court said much research had been carried out to find solutions to the problems of the estuary.  Each year algal blooms clog the estuary, killing marine life and reducing the economic and recreational potential of the waterways.

"The decision to build the Dawesville Channel was not taken lightly and was by no means the only option considered," the Premier said.

"In fact, more than 120 management strategies were assessed.

"The construction of the Dawesville Channel, weed harvesting in the estuary and improved land management are part of the government's strategy to solve the problems of the Peel-Harvey estuary."

A weekend of festivities is planned to celebrate the channel's opening, including a swimming race featuring world champion long distance swimmer Shelly Taylor-Smith.

The Endeavour replica was also at the official opening - its first voyage under sail outside the waters of Fremantle.