Published on Friday, 31 January 2025 at 12:57:31 PM
In an attempt to mitigate serious accidents at high-risk areas, the Shire of Esperance will be installing pine poles and two coated wire fencing at Salmon Beach. This style of fencing is used at other coastal reserves.
The fencing will be located at the beach access to the two headlands. The aim is to direct people past specific warning signage (below) before they make the choice to proceed into the high risk rocks.
Since the information was shared by ABC yesterday, there has been some interesting comments from the public. We want to clear up some conspiracies and reassure our community that we are not taking away your freedom to fish, swim or access coastal areas. We only want people to respect the wildness of our coast and the dangers that can come with it.
- Why at Salmon Beach? Since 2020, two tourists have slipped off the rocks and died. We can only assume that more people have had near accidents.
- Does this mean we can’t fish? No, You can still fish. Rock Bolts are located at the western headland so fishers can tie off.
- How does the Shire plan to ensure that people respect the fencing and do not bypass it? We can’t. The Shire can only provide the infrastructure and education around this. It is up to the individual to know the risks of the areas they are exploring. People must take responsibility for themselves.
- Is this part of the Marine Park? No. This is part of us caring for our community and visitors.
- We should display the warning in every language. With over 7,000 languages in the world, we think the sign would have to be massive. However, with thanks to google – visitors are able to take a photo of any sign and their device will translate it! What an amazing world we live in.
- Will any land be cleared? No.
- Will we have to pay to access the area? No. You can still access the area for free. Again, we are just trying to save lives here.
- Will our rates go up? No. The materials needed for this plan is available in the Shires current maintenance program – so all good there. However, if people choose to vandalise and destroy the fencing, then the cost associated with the project will increase each time it needs repairing.
- Beyond fencing, what are the Shire’s long-term plans for improving beach safety and reducing drowning incidents? The Shire will continue to work with partners to educate about coastal safety.
It is people’s individual responsibility to know the risks, and to know their abilities. If you haven’t swum in the ocean, get some lessons before heading out. If you have never 4 wheel driven, get some lessons.
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