Opening of new bridge and walkway at Canal Rocks

6/1/99

Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes said today public demand had resulted in the building of a new walkway and bridge at one of the most popular fishing spots along the Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park coastline.

Officially opening the new $100,000 facilities at Canal Rocks today, Mrs Edwardes said the community had been instrumental in assisting the Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) build the walkway and bridge.

The Minister said the canal was a highly prized area for recreational fishers, attracting more than 1.25 million visitors a year.

She said the new bridge would also make fishing safer for locals and visitors to the area.

The first constructed footbridge was built in 1919. Over the next 78 years, the bridge was repaired several times until in June 1997 when CALM closed the bridge, declaring it unsafe for the public to use.

A public petition to have the footbridge rebuilt was started with local companies offering assistance.

Mrs Edwardes said CALM recognised the demand for a new facility and following public consultation agreed to build the new bridge which extends from the carpark to the canal.

The Minister said the bridge was a tribute to CALM staff and local businesses who worked together on the project. She particularly thanked local businesses Cape Crushing and Jim House Sawmillers who donated rock and timber and Mal Strange and Ray Bridges of CALM's South-West Capes District who oversaw the project and carried out much of the work.

Media contacts: Ministerial - Nicole Trigwell 9421 7777 CALM - Roger Banks 9752 1677