Yarrie Lake has been officially declared ‘open for business’ and local residents haven’t wasted any time getting back in the water.
The Brodigan family were out in their boat on Wednesday afternoon, carving up the lake waterskiing and knee-boarding across the great expanse of water.
“Oh it’s just great,” said 24-year-old Emily Brodgian on Wednesday, it was her first waterski on the lake since 2017.
“It’s so good not having to drive two plus hours to find water. It’s a great way to end my work day – knock off and come down here for a ski.”
The lake’s water level is currently sitting at about one-point-seven metres at its deepest point, and the Yarrie Lake Flora and Fauna Trust officially announced it was reopen on Tuesday afternoon.
“I think it’s fantastic, I think it’s awesome – it’s going to be a spectacle for everyone from local to nomads,” said Bernie Smith, president of the Yarrie Lake Flora and Fauna Trust.
Mr Smith said the ‘last time the lake was this full was in 2016’.
Due to the drought the lake has been too dry for recreation since mid-2017 and local residents as well as camping and boating enthusiasts have been eagerly watching levels rise since the recent rain.
But now finally the birds are singing, the water is flowing and the lake is ready for locals and tourists.
And hopefully the region will see a boost in business.
“It’s no secret that our district and the business houses have been battling with the drought, a full lake not only lifts businesses but just as important – it lifts the mental health of all residents,” said Wee Waa Chamber of Commerce vice-president John Tully.
“Yesterday the Trust members came out to take measurements and officially declared the lake open for business.
“In the coming weeks and especially over Easter, the lake will give locals a long overdue recreation and at a much loved local spot.”
“With a potential full-time water resource in the test bore project, hopefully we may never see the lake empty again,” added Mr Tully.
