Matilda Bay is in the swim

13/6/05
The Department of Conservation and Land Management has installed two floating pontoon swimming jetties at popular picnic spot Matilda Bay, replacing the dilapidated and dangerous jetties built in the 1940s.
Environment and Science Minister Judy Edwards said that in 2003, CALM determined the wooden swimming jetties were unsafe to use, as many of the jarrah pylons used in the jetties' structure were rotten from being in the water for so long.
"Local residents and interested parties were invited to have their say on what they would like to see happen at the site of the jetties," Dr Edwards said.
"The department's Swan Coastal District Officers ran a series of stakeholder meetings with local community members, Matilda Bay leaseholders, other Government agencies and indigenous representatives.
"The aim was to determine if the wooden jetties should be replaced with the same, an alternative be sought, or if in fact they should be replaced at all."
The Minister said results from the stakeholder feedback determined there was an expectation that the jetties would be replaced.
"However, in respect for the indigenous heritage of the Swan River, an alternative to driving pylons into the riverbed was sought," she said.
CALM then sourced alternative designs which have resulted in the planning and development of the recently installed floating pontoon swimming jetties.
The new jetties are anchored to the bottom using railway iron train wheels, and are made of a poly carbonate timber look-alike which is fade, fire and flood resistant.
The jetties are 50m apart, so swimmers can swim laps if they so choose.
"CALM officers have already had some excellent feedback," Dr Edwards said.
"The project's results show the department has been able to plan and develop a fantastic outcome for all concerned that will improve the amenity of the reserve and add to the lifestyle of Western Australia."
Minister's office: 9220 5050