Pool in line for upgrade

The picturesque Minninup Pool is set for a redevelopment, with the Collie Shire Council seeking community input on the use of the area. The natural pool is a dog leg of the Collie River sitting off Minninup Road, five minutes from Collie, making it a popular spot for tourists and residents. “We are in the process of doing some detailed design for the foreshore, Sandy Beach and the rowing club area at the Minninup Pool,” Collie shire chief executive David Blurton said. “There will be a process around engagement with that.” The site also holds cultural significance for the Noongar community, which has been acknowledged and is set to be incorporated in the designs for the development. “Ultimately, we are trying to improve the facilities out there for tourists and for locals as well, but want to recognise it as a significant Aboriginal heritage site,” Mr Blurton said. “There has already been a lot of engagement with the Aboriginal people and that will continue in the next stage. “We want to recognise that, make sure stories are told and make it something very interesting for people to come and see as well as recognising the heritage.” The work will include an upgrade to facilities including retaining walls and landscaping work at the foreshore. “We want to improve the facilities out here and those day use areas that people can come and enjoy,” Mr Blurton said. “They are looking a bit tired out here so we want to maximise the potential of this place. “Running alongside this there is a process around developing some camping out here and some more up-market facilities.” The work will also look to address erosion issues at nearby Sandy Beach. Nature-based recreation planing consultants Vicki Winfield and Associates are working with the council to provide detailed costings.