Apr COVID-19 Works Update Dwellingup

Who would have thought a couple of months ago we would find ourselves dealing with a pandemic and living in a world of ‘social distancing’ restrictions?

The current COVID-19 situation and restrictions have impacted on the Dwellingup Adventure Trails project, and we have had to review and adjust accordingly. That being said, the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions is pleased to say things haven’t come to a grinding halt, and we have been working hard to continue (where possible) with new trails and facilities under construction.

Earlier this year, DBCA called a tender for the construction of the next 18 kilometres of mountain bike trail in Lane Poole Reserve. Given the rapidly changing situation, DBCA recently withdrew the tender prior to award, and has now allocated portions of the trail construction to our local Western Australian based trail companies to support their businesses through this tough time. Trail construction will be continuing over coming months with the contractors operating under strict guidelines to meet current government restrictions.

DBCA has awarded a contract to engineer, fabricate and install the new canoe launching stairs at Island Pool, and issued a tender for the design of the suspension bridge at the Dwaarlindjirraap (Baden Powell) day use area, while the design and engineering for the road upgrades within Lane Poole Reserve is also being completed.

We continue to work with the Shire of Murray and key stakeholders in the branding and future marketing for the project, which will be woven into new signage for the trails and facilities. Looking further into the future, we are continuing with the planning for the next stage of trails (further 20 kilometres) around Dwellingup to be ready for construction in 2021.

It has been and remains a very challenging time, but it’s DBCA’s intent there will be new trails and experiences for you to head out and explore in the future. In the interest of protecting regional communities, the public, our staff and contractors, DBCA requests everyone obey the current government and travel restrictions and not visit until the restrictions have been lifted.  

For up to date information on COVID-19 and our national parks and reserves, please see here.