Hattah environmental works update

Wednesday 4 July, 2012

Parks Victoria advises that the Emmetts Bend boat ramp in Murray-Kulkyne Park at Colignan is now closed to the public as part of the Hattah Lakes environmental works.

Parks Victoria Ranger in Charge at Hattah, Damien Kerr said the closure of the Emmetts Bend boat ramp is only temporary and will allow for erosion control and fish passage works on the Chalka Creek junction with the Murray River.

“The works are part of The Living Murray program which includes the installation of water management regulators, block banks, creek lowering and a pump station,” said Mr Kerr.  

It is expected that the works will take 2 to 3 months subject to favourable conditions.

“The boat ramp has remained open during construction of the environmental works to allow access to the river. In the interests of public safety it now needs to be closed while construction takes place on the Chalka Creek.”

Mr Kerr said that boat owners should seek alternative boat ramps to launch their boats.

“Boat owners can use the boat ramps at nearby Watts Bend in Colignan or upstream at Wemen”

While the boat ramp is closed, Parks Victoria will take the opportunity to upgrade the ramp to allow safer access to the river.

Visitors are reminded that while the River Track is closed between Colignan and Robinvale Road until December due to construction, most of the park is still open, including access to the Hattah Lakes.

“We encourage everyone to come and see one of the great national parks in the state.”

Hattah-Kulkyne National Park lies in typical Mallee country with extensive low scrub and open native pine woodland.  The freshwater Hattah Lakes are seasonally filled by creeks connected to the Murray, providing food and shelter for waterbirds and fish. Camping, walking, bike riding and canoeing are popular and in the adjoining Murray-Kulkyne Park.

More information on The Living Murray works is available from the Mallee Catchment Management Authority (CMA) website at www.malleecma.vic.gov.au

For conditions and information about Hattah-Kulkyne National Park.