Published on Monday, 4 August 2025 at 2:13:32 PM
A channel connecting Denmark’s Wilson Inlet to the Southern Ocean is expected to be opened on Wednesday, 6 August following a meeting between stakeholders.
The opening, which typically takes place most years between June to September, helps preserve ecological values within the inlet and protects the wider catchment from flooding.
Water Corporation, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER), Shire of Denmark and City of Albany agreed to timeframes last week (Friday, 1 August) after water levels rose to the minimum required to trigger an opening.
Plant equipment will be moved onto Ocean Beach tomorrow (Tuesday, 5 August) in preparation for Wednesday’s opening, which could be brought forward in the event of heavy rainfall.
If the date does change, community will be informed in advance, but the current plan is to open the sandbar from 10.30am Wednesday 6 August.
As well as being an interesting spectacle, the opening is also an important part of maintaining the health of the inlet and protecting the wider area from flooding.
Anyone interested in watching the opening are advised that precautions will be taken to ensure public safety, with Water Corporation managing the works and providing signage and instruction when and where necessary.
Shire rangers will also be patrolling the area.
Swimmers and surfers should be mindful of the potential for changeable conditions in the area due to the increased exchange of water between Wilson Inlet and the ocean, and the increase in activity from marine life that this transfer also causes.
The sandbar opening is governed by a framework developed by DWER and agreed to by key stakeholders.
For more information, please contact Operations Support Manager, Michael Sillifant on (08) 9842 4216 or via email at Michael.Sillifant@watercorporation.com.au
For faults, emergencies, and security, please call our 24/7 line on 13 13 75
Photo credit: Nic Duncan
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