Mount Gambier City Council yesterday reopened sections of the Crater Lakes precinct for public use three weeks after fire burned 50ha of the area.
The second stage of the phased reopening process included Davison Drive, the Valley Lake Conservation Park, playground and picnic areas and Freemans Landing.
Council chief executive Sarah Philpott said the reopening followed ongoing damage and risk assessments in the area.
“I am sure our community will be pleased to hear that people can access Davison Drive, the Valley Lake Conservation Park, playground and picnic areas and Freemans Landing once again,” she said.
“Recreational activities are not permitted on the Valley Lake as ongoing water quality assessment continues.
“We estimate about 400,000 litres of water was removed from the Valley Lake as a result of firefighting efforts, reducing the level of the lake by about 120mm.
“The lake will be reopened for activities once assessments are complete.
“Additional signage, temporary fencing and bunting has been installed along Davison Drive to ensure people stay away from fire affected areas.
“Brownes Lake, Centenary Tower and the pines area are expected to remain closed for some time and council will assess these areas when it is safe to do so.
“There are currently safety issues and considerations regarding the stability of the slope at Haig Drive.
The fire destroyed vegetation and erosion is already occurring which means that landslides could happen on the slope during a wet weather event.
“Council will engage a geotechnical consultant to provide a stability assessment in the area.”
Centenary Tower, the back section of Carinya Gardens Cemetery, Potters Point, and all associated Crater Lakes walking/bike trails remain closed as the assessment process continues.
Ms Philpott said the animals within the Valley Lake Conservation Park have been assessed by a vet to be in good health.
“It does not appear the animals have been impacted by fire, smoke or stress,” she said.
“Council also worked with local native animal carers to assess the welfare of the wildlife and they suggested that we place water tubes around the edges of the fire affected areas for animals that may still be located in inaccessible burnt areas.”
