¶ THE Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (DPLH) is pushing for Collie Shire to formally take on management of Black Diamond Lake.
However, president Ian Miffling told the Bulletin the department has made no recent contact with the shire and that management of Black Diamond is not an issue council is currently considering.
Safety, cleanliness and public health concerns have frequently been raised about the unmanaged recreation area in Allanson, which is a popular swimming hole among locals and tourist stop-off.
A feasibility study reviewing Black Diamond’s potential tourism and recreational uses, including development of a staged master plan to guide the area's development, was undertaken in 2019.
Among its findings, the study recommended the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions assume ownership and management of the lake.
The study listed management and maintenance costs, along with liability risks and costs, as disadvantages of potential shire ownership and management.
However, a DPLH spokesperson said the shire is well positioned to take on the responsibility.
“Ongoing discussions are being held with the shire to explore the feasibility of it taking over the formal management of Black Diamond Lake,” the spokesperson said.
“The shire’s local governance and proximity to the lake make it well placed to manage it in line with community interests and local tourism goals.”
The study additionally highlighted the potential for development of day use facilities and short-stay bush camp sites.
Rosanne Pimm, who chaired the group investigating the project, said it is disappointing the study has since sat on the shelf and called on the State Government to take action.
Mrs Pimm described Black Diamond as a “gem that has been totally wasted as far as Collie is concerned”.
“I’m bitterly disappointed that the government hasn’t taken up the project,” she said.
“It’s important for Collie and the residents in Allanson, in particular.
“The prospects for it are so good and it’s a shame to see it languishing out there.”