15/3/02
The people of Onslow are to be commended for their vision and commitment to the future of their region, Minister for the Pilbara Tom Stephens said today.
The Pilbara Development Commission, with the support of the Shire of Ashburton, Government agencies and the community, is driving the Onslow 4-year Strategic Development Plan.
"One of the objectives of the Development Plan is to find a workable solution to the competing demands and expectations of the Onslow sea wall," Mr Stephens said.
During a well-attended public meeting early this week (March 11), the chairman of the taskforce, Robyn Crane, and the community received an interim report on the options available to protect the township against erosion and flooding during severe storm events.
Mr Mick Rogers from MP Rogers and Associates and Mr Peter Boreham, coastal engineer from the Department for Planning and Infrastructure, Marine Division presented the findings of the investigations undertaken.
The existing sea wall, which was built by the Public Works Department in 1958 to provide protection against coastal erosion has slowly deteriorated over time and had been extensively damaged during Cyclone Vance in March 1999.
"A number of alternatives were considered including the rebuilding of the sea wall and sand nourishment, as well as groyne and headland construction options," Mr Stephens said.
"Consideration has also been given to the works required to provide improved flood protection and the report findings provide us with a strong basis on which to proceed."
A general consensus of the residents was to reinstate the sea wall without limiting the natural vista. A height of approximately .5m above road level along First Avenue was considered by residents to be appropriate.
It was also agreed that ancillary works would be required in low-lying areas of the town to minimise floodwaters backing up from Beadon Creek and torrential rain.
"One of the major issues now facing the taskforce is the availability of suitable rock for the construction and armour guarding of the wall," Mr Stephens said.
"Investigations are being undertaken to identify areas where rock armour may be quarried."
The Pilbara Development Commission has undertaken to convene another public meeting in Onslow during April to present the final design drawings for the community's consideration.
The project is achieving the timelines established and - subject to resolving the supply of suitable rock armour - it is anticipated that tenders will be called prior to the end of the financial year with construction being completed in time for the 2002-03 cyclone season.
Mr Stephens said the progress on the future of the sea wall was a successful outcome of an effective working partnership between the community and a supportive Labor Government.
Minister's Office - 9213 6500
