This amazes me. I wouldn't have thought water skiing would be allowed in a Marine Park.

Increased numbers of vessels involved in water skiing at Walpole has prompted the Department of Transport (DoT) to open a dedicated ski area within the Nornalup Inlet.

DoT Marine Safety Operations Director Ray Buchholz said the inlet was increasingly busy with water craft and with the busy summer holiday season approaching the formal gazettal of the new water ski area was timely.

Mr Buchholz said DoT recognised the need for a formal aquatic use review of the inlet and had committed resources to undertake the task in 2012.

"The review will enable a comprehensive assessment of all aquatic use of the waterway and will involve local users in long-term decision making to ensure the safety of all users,” Mr Buchholz said. 

“Key stakeholders including the Shire of Manjimup, Fisheries, the Department for Environment and Conservation (DEC) and local interest and user groups will be consulted as part of the review over the coming months.    

"A similar review has recently been undertaken at Albany and had strong community support."

Mr Buchholz said the implementation of new ski area on the inlet, ahead of the formal aquatic review, was needed to provide enthusiasts with a legal and safe environment for their activity.

"New signage buoys have been installed to clearly mark the boundary of the ski area and DoT's Regional Transport Officers and the Department for Environment and Conservation (DEC) would promote the safe use of the area," Mr Buchholz said.

It’s envisaged the aquatic use review will be completed early next year.

People wanting more information about the new Nornalup Ski Area can contact DoT's Great Southern Regional Office at Albany on 9892 7312