Boat owners urged to remove vessels ahead of Lake Kununurra water level drop

Boat and barge owners have been advised to remove their vessels in early December before the water levels at Lake Kununurra are lowered for maintenance work. All vessels in Lake Kununurra, Packsaddle and Crossing Falls need to be removed to avoid being damaged as the Water Corporation plans to lower the water levels for maintenance on the irrigation scheme. Water Corporation north west regional manager Sharon Broad said people should prepare now as the works would happen after the first big rains of the season. “As soon as the rain arrives, we will begin the process to lower the water level of Lake Kununurra and undertake essential work on the M1 offtake as part of the ongoing M1 channel upgrade works,” Ms Broad said. “This way we can minimise impacts on water supply for local growers while making the most of the natural replenishment provided by rainfall. “People who are required to navigate the river during this period should consider the risks involved due to lower water levels. “If you have pumping or other ancillary equipment near the river, please consider the risks and take preventative measures, such as moving this equipment in advance so that we can commence the lowering of the lake as soon as practicable.“ “We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the community during this time.” Boats in nearby Lilly Creek Lagoon can stay in the water as long as they are secured as, once the water recedes, they will sit on the riverbed. The lowering of the water levels will take place over two weeks, sometime between December 9 and the end of February. “Unfortunately, we can’t give an exact date of when we will commence works, but when the rain comes, we will move quickly,” Ms Broad said.