Government unveils Ord West Bank plans for public comment

A series of agricultural subdivision concept plans for the development of about 1000ha of irrigated farmland near Kununurra has been unveiled by the State Government.

Regional Development Minister Brendon Grylls said the development of the West Bank would provide additional prime agricultural land in the Ord Irrigation Area.

The development is expected to allow for up to 25 new farms run by local producers, with the land expected to be offered for sale by tender in 2014-15.

“Ord West Bank is essentially an agricultural in-fill opportunity in Ord Stage 1 and its potential has been recognised for many years,” he said.

“The outstanding soils in West Bank are an opportunity to further encourage high-value horticultural crops, and diversification in the Ord system.”

The concept plans are a result of consultation with Ord Community Reference Group, MG Corporation and the Shire of Wyndham / East Kimberley.

Planners are seeking to clear an additional 300ha of land, subject to support from Miriuwung Gajerrong people through

Native title considerations.

The Ord- East Kimberley Expansion project has received more than $311 million in State Government Royalties for Regions funding.

The Ord West Bank land is located north of Kununurra, on the western bank of the Ord River, opposite Ivanhoe Crossing. Valentine Springs Road passes through the land which is in two parcels — 59ha and some 1700ha — with about 1000ha arable.

Soils are a mix of alluvial levee, sandy and black soil types.

Concept plans are open for comment until August 30 and available at www.drd.wa.gov.au.