Kerrod Trott 
With the help of Paul Rosser, Chas Martin, Peter Laffan, Gavin Malone, Karl Telfer and others who have been involved in extensive restoration work at The Washpool, the Willunga Environment Centre and Aldinga Village Voice have prepared a revised timeline, a grassroots history, of the activism that has propelled the “Save The Washpool” movement to where it is today.
The updated timeline also pays tribute to the legion of volunteers who have worked tirelessly for many years to protect and restore the Washpool, many of whom are sadly no longer with us today.
The Washpool Lagoon was incorporated into the Aldinga Conservation Park in January 2022, after decades of discussion, debate and activism by local community groups and environmentalists. The spirit of collaboration between community, State Government and Onkaparinga Council, and maintaining a clear focus as a unified community, finally came to fruition.
Along the way, many people have made a lot of effort to introduce the Aldinga and Sellicks communities to the wonders of this ephemeral wetland with its rich cultural history and ecological significance, and they have been supported by key leaders in local and state government, including politicians at all levels.
At the launch ceremony in January, Premier Steven Marshall said the proclamation was a significant milestone for the local community and supporters, and Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs said the local community had long advocated for better protection of this site.
The new Washpool timeline is available online at Washpool_timeline_combined_revisions_003.pdf (willungaenviro.org.au)
If you know more about this story, or have a different recollection, please contact us at info@aldingavillagevoince.com.au
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