Lenthalls Dam reopened for recreation this weekend

Lenthalls Dam will reopen for recreational activities such as fishing, boating and picnics from this Saturday 2 May.

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour said the decision followed the State Government’s announcement it was easing stay at home restrictions from this weekend.

“The fact that places such as national parks and recreation areas at dams can be reopened is great news and a reward for Queenslanders doing the right thing during the coronavirus pandemic,” he said.

“It is vitally important though that anyone visiting Lenthalls Dam continues to follow the advice of national and state health authorities.

“This includes maintaining social distancing and good hygiene practices, staying within 50km of your home and only going out with members of the same household or one other person.”

Cr Seymour said the onsite ranger would reopen the Lenthalls Dam recreation area to the public from 6am to 8pm daily from this Saturday.

“This will allow the community to visit the recreation area for a picnic, take a bushwalk around the site or fish for stocked barramundi and Australian Bass,” he said.

“Camping and the use of public barbecues will still not be permitted in line with the Queensland Chief Health Officer’s directives, and visitors also need to be aware that the access road to the dam is unsealed.”

Boat engines are restricted to four-stroke or direct injection low emission two-stroke engines up to a maximum of 60Hp. Fishers over 18 years of age need a Stocked Impoundment Permit (recreational fishing permit).

Cr Seymour said Council was being guided by the Australian and Queensland Governments’ advice and directions aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus, and there were no changes being made to other Council facilities at this stage.

“The health and safety of our community and our workers is our highest priority,” he said.

“Council will only reopen facilities when we receive updated advice from national and state health authorities that it is safe to do so.”

More details about changes to Council services and facilities due to the coronavirus are available here 

Anyone seeking more information and the latest advice about the coronavirus is encouraged to visit www.australia.gov.au and www.health.qld.gov.au/coronavirus

Fast Facts about Lenthalls Dam

• The lake has a surface area of about 766 ha and holds 29,500 megalitres of water at full supply
• The dam supplies water to Howard, Burrum Heads, Toogoom, Torbanlea and Hervey Bay.
• It is situated at the headwaters of the Burrum River.