Yarragadee Aquifer to be tested as Champion Lakes water source

18/3/03
A 600m test bore will be sunk in the Yarragadee Aquifer in Perth's south-east, to gauge whether water can be accessed for the 120ha water-based recreation facility, Champion Lakes, near Armadale.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the Armadale Redevelopment Authority would spend $250,000 on testing, because the vital requirement to turn Champion Lakes Rowing Course into a reality was to access water not likely to affect Perth's drinking water resources.
"The Water and Rivers Commission believes the Yarragadee Aquifer is the most likely source to fit this bill," Ms MacTiernan said.
"However, this will have to be proved before final environmental approvals can be given."
Yarragadee Aquifer has never been tested for water quality or drawdown impacts on other aquifers.
"There are only three drilling rigs in Western Australia's South-West capable of drilling the 600m needed," Ms MacTiernan said.
"While it normally takes six months' notice to book a drilling rig, one has become available to start work in early April."
It was the early availability of the rig which prompted the ARA to commit the funds for the test bore. This commitment is essential if the environmental process is to take advantage of supplying fill for the Tonkin Highway extension and achieving a $20million benefit for the Champion Lakes project.
ARA chairman Gerry Gauntlett said the Main Roads contractors would clay line the excavations as part of the deal.
"Another benefit is there will be no need for trucks to be carting sand from other areas on Armadale's major roads," Mr Gauntlett said.
The drilling will take about four weeks to complete.
"Not only will the Yarragadee test bore provide certainty for the Champion Lakes water source, but it will also add considerable information to the body of knowledge on Perth's water resources," Ms MacTiernan said.
The Champion Lakes concept includes an international rowing course, white water facility with rapids for canoeists, short stay accommodation and associated facilities adjacent to the planned extension of Tonkin Highway.
It is a joint State/local government initiative, being directed by the ARA and involving many areas of government such as planning, transport, environment, education and sport. There has also been extensive community input.
Minister's office: 9213 6400