Water-based activities at South Australian reservoirs have taken another step forward with access to Warren, Bundaleer and South Para reservoirs expected in the coming months, and shoreline fishing to be allowed at Myponga in time for summer.
Warren and Bundaleer reservoirs, which are currently only accessible to those with an appropriate fishing permit, will have expanded access including hiking, cycling, picnicking and kayaking.
South Para Reservoir, which is currently undergoing some final assessments, is expected to follow shortly after and also allow hiking, cycling, picnicking, kayaking and fishing.
Myponga Reservoir, which was opened to the public for off-water recreational activity for the first time in April, will have shore-line fishing available.
Expanded recreation activities at Warren, Bundaleer and Myponga reservoirs will be available this summer, with South Para Reservoir expected to be open shortly after.
Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the opening up of the state’s reservoirs for recreational activity is an amazing opportunity for South Australians.
“We went to the election with a clear plan to open-up our reservoirs for the people of South Australia to enjoy and have been busy working to make this a reality ever since,” said Minister Speirs.
“The opening up of Myponga Reservoir in April has been an outstanding success providing both a social and economic boost for the Fleurieu Peninsula through thousands of visitors to the reservoir.
“I am looking forward to the same opportunities being available to other South Australians around the state soon.
“A cross-government taskforce has been ensuring every aspect from roads and infrastructure, through to tourism, is carefully considered and factored into the planning. Protecting the health and quality of our drinking water supplies has of course come first, and has directly informed the types of activities being enabled, which will vary from site to site.
“The taskforce has now given the green light to further on-water activities at Warren and Bundaleer reservoirs as well as shore-based fishing at Myponga and has advanced the opening at South Para.
“More and more South Australian families will soon be able to enjoy these picturesque landscapes which have been locked away under former governments.”
The cross-government taskforce is made up of representatives from the Department for Environment and Water, SA Water, and SA Health.
SA Health Principal Water Quality Adviser Dr David Cunliffe said SA Health are responsible for providing advice in relation to drinking water safety to ensure all health requirements are met.
“SA Health is the regulator when it comes to opening reservoirs up for recreational activity to ensure appropriate measures and controls are in place,” said Dr Cunliffe.
“Sophisticated research and modelling has been undertaken to ensure drinking water safety and compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (2011).”
The taskforce is continuing to work on opening up other reservoirs around the state such as Hope Valley and Happy Valley and will have further information on plans for these reservoirs later in 2019.
