Cash flows to restore Collie River health

Collie shire president Sarah Stanley has welcomed State Government funding for a project set to revitalise the health of the Collie River.

Collie-Preston MLA Mick Murray approved $40,000 from the Local Projects, Local Jobs initiative to renew and replace a water stop, which restricts river flow, at Venn Street to improve the depth of the river in town.

Mrs Stanley said Collie residents take pride in the health of the Collie River.

“Our community consistently tells us that the health of the Collie River is very important to them,” she said.

“It meanders through the centre of our town and links together many of our beautiful natural assets.

“The Venn Street water stop plays an important role in simulating the natural pools in the Collie River during the dry season.”

Mrs Stanley said she was pleased the upgrade of the water stop was moving forward.

“It has been long overdue for an upgrade in order to improve its functionality as well as safe access for workers,” she said.

“The State Government’s contribution to this project is a welcome addition to our overall Collie River restoration works.”

Mr Murray said the project was an important aspect of improving the health of the Collie River.

“This water stop project needs to be done to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of the river,” he said.

“I look forward to seeing this project come to fruition to keep our river in good shape.”

Mr Murray said increasing the water depth was expected to improve biodiversity and health of the river and reduce the dominance of aquatic weeds.

The water stop is part of a wider $250,000 revitalisation project of the Collie River committed by the government.