Thursday, May 01, 2025

Wungong Dam, WA

During our most recent trip to WA, our very first outing (14.04.2025) was a visit to another dam - Wungong Dam in Wungong Brook Valley of the Darling Range in WA. Previously in January 2023, we had the opportunity to explore and picnic at North Dandalup Dam (Read here).

A quick search revealed that there are over 100 dams across WA dedicated to public water supply. This makes sense given that WA is significantly more arid compared to where I come from. Interestingly, several of these dams are also equipped with recreational facilities, such as picnic areas, walking trails, scenic lookouts and in some cases barbecue facilities. It's a thoughtful policy that allows the public to enjoy these natural resources responsibly.

That said, I do have reservations about applying a similar open-access to dams in my own region. Without proper and reliable enforcement, especially given the lack of civil-mindedness among the local population, the consequences could be troubling - littered surrounding, vandalized amenities and even the risk of illegal squatter encroachment shortly after public access is granted.

Spillway.
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A picturesque pond downstream of the dam.

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