MEDIA STATEMENT Lake Ewlyamartup – Ongoing Tampering with Flushing Channel Gates

Published on Thursday, 2 April 2026 at 10:10:25 AM

MEDIA STATEMENT
Lake Ewlyamartup – Ongoing Tampering with Flushing Channel Gates

The Shire of Katanning is extremely disappointed to report that the flushing channel gates at Lake Ewlyamartup have once again been deliberately tampered with. Last week, unknown persons, without authority, removed panels from the Lake Ewlyamartup Flushing Channel Gate.

This reckless and unauthorised interference has a direct impact on water levels within the lake, placing significant stress on the ecosystem and the waterbirds that rely on Lake Ewlyamartup as a critical refuge, particularly during dry periods.

“The operation of the flushing channel is not arbitrary. It is guided by a carefully developed and evidence based management plan, informed by environmental conditions including salinity levels, rainfall, water flow and ecological needs. These decisions are made in consultation with experts and local stakeholders, including Katanning Landcare and the Lake Ewlyamartup Working Group” said Shire President Kristy D’Aprile.

The Shire strongly condemns this behaviour. Community infrastructure is not to be interfered with under any circumstances. Individuals found to be tampering with the gates may face significant penalties.

Since this discovery, Landcare and Lake Ewlyamartup Working Group volunteers have retrieved and reinstated the panels to prevent any further water loss from this critical wildlife refuge.

We are asking our community to respect the processes in place and the volunteers and professionals who work hard to protect this important environmental asset.

If you see any suspicious activity around the Lake Ewlyamartup infrastructure, please report it to the Shire immediately, 98219999.

For enquiries regarding the lake’s management, please contact Katanning Landcare on 9821 4327.

Kristy D’Aprile
SHIRE PRESIDENT