Closure of Starvation Bay boat ramp during VacSwim

Published on Thursday, 14 December 2023 at 2:09:01 PM

A recent review and risk assessment of the VacSwim program at Starvation Bay identified several mandatory changes and upgrades are required before the swimming program can go ahead in January 2024. 

One of the key recommendations of the review, which was carried out by the Department of Education, is the closure of the boat ramp and prohibition of launching at Starvation Bay whilst swimming lessons are in progress.

The Shire of Ravensthorpe is working hard to ensure all parties currently booked in at the Starvation Bay camp site during the VacSwim dates are aware of the closure.  

Closure only during VacSwim lessons

It is important to note the boat ramp closure is only during the VacSwim program, the details of which are:

Tuesday 2 January – Friday 12 January, from 7am- 3pm.

Access will be opened if lessons times are delayed or finish early or in the event of an emergency.

Maintenance work on the 4WD track has recently been completed which provides vehicle access to the beach.  

During the closure of the boat ramp a physical barrier will be installed, with appropriate signage also in place.  

Common sense approach

Shire of Ravensthorpe CEO Matthew Bird said other key recommendations from the review, such as driver awareness training, a campground specific emergency plan and additional signage, have all been implemented already.  

“We know how important the VacSwim program is to the local community, we’re doing everything we can to ensure we meet the recommendations set out by the Department of Education,” he said.  

“We ask all visitors to Starvation Bay this summer to use their common sense, please follow signposted instructions and adhere to the new rules. The common goal here is for the great tradition of learning to swim at Starvation Bay to continue in the years ahead.”

 

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