¶ MAINTENANCE works are to be carried out at Minningup Pool’s main day-use area in the coming months.
Collie Shire will undertake the works, anticipated to be completed by the end of July, following negotiations with the State Government and extensive consultations with Aboriginal stakeholders.
The shire will draw on $93,000 in funding remaining from a $500,000 government grant to undertake project planning and environmental assessments for the previously proposed eco-tourism development at Minningup.
The proposal provoked significant community backlash, with locals arguing the Collie icon should remain free from development.
Council subsequently removed the project from its list of strategic priorities.
The works will include relaying of the grassed area and refurbishment of the gazebo and picnic setting, along with the replacement of timber steps.
“We’ll just be replacing what’s already there,” shire president Ian Miffling said.
“Timber sleepers will be replaced with timber sleepers and a couple of picnic benches.”
All views had been carefully considered as part of the consultation process, Cr Miffling said.
The works have received the “tick of approval” from Aboriginal elder Joe Northover and the Gnaala Karla Booja Aboriginal Corporation, Cr Miffling added.
“We are very grateful to them for their input and cooperation,” he said.
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns said the works will “ensure this culturally sensitive and valuable community asset is maintained for continued community use”.
“It’s great to see all parties working together to come up with a solution to use remaining project funding, which will allow much-needed minor maintenance at Minningup Pool to take place,” Mrs Hanns said.
“The upgrades will help maintain Minningup Pool as a safe, welcoming and accessible space for the community to gather, connect with nature and participate in healthy recreational activities.”