Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) will host a community meeting early in April to provide an update on the North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve lead contamination issue.
The event will take place at the North Wangaratta Football and Netball Club function room, 7 Detour Road, North Wangaratta, on Wednesday 5 April from 5.30pm to 7:30pm.
The session will provide:
- The latest updates on the lead contamination investigation;
- An opportunity to discuss the management plan for re-opening part of the football oval and the Wangaratta Clay Target Club;
- An opportunity to ask questions of a panel with representatives from EPA and partnering government agencies; and
- More information about the next steps leading to a resolution.
The reserve was closed to the community last year after lead was detected in soil samples at the site’s eastern boundary above the health limits for recreational levels.
EPA North East Manager Emma Knights said the contaminated portion of the site was currently being cordoned off and that a management plan was in place to mitigate any public health risks.
“Contractors have now put in place temporary fencing around the area of the oval that is contaminated with lead, which has paved the way for works to begin on the non-contaminated area to return it to a fit state for players to train on,” Ms Knights said.
The Wangaratta Clay Target Club can recommence shooting at its site subject to conditions in a management plan that has been reviewed by EPA.
Ms Knights said that the next step to be undertaken at the reserve would be for the development of a clean-up plan.
“Once EPA has further information about how clean up will occur it will be provided to the community,” Ms Knights said.
“On behalf of all the agencies involved in North Wangaratta Recreation Reserve lead contamination issue, I would like to thank everyone for their patience while this comprehensive investigation is occurring and we look forward to seeing the clubs return to their rightful home soon.”