The stunning Leschenault Estuary (Derbal Elaap) is highly valued by the community for its natural vistas, fishing, crabbing, and other recreational pursuits. The estuary is ecologically significant - home to dolphins and an important migratory route for many species of birds. These attributes are appreciated by both the local community and visitors to the area.

Unfortunately in recent times the estuary has shown signs of distress, with sedimentation, nuisance algae, harmful algal blooms and fish deaths. There is an urgent need to balance growing urbanization and intensification of agriculture with the long-term health of the estuary.

The region is very significant socio-economically. The Greater Bunbury area is one of the most populous areas in the state’s south west. It is forecast to grow from 61 000 to between 100 000 to 150 000 residents by 2031 (WAPC 2005). Development of the Bunbury port has led to many estuary modifications, including the creation of a permanent opening “The Cut” in 1951.

For the Leschenault Estuary, the Healthy Estuaries WA will:

• Work with the Leschenault Catchment Council for joint delivery of on-ground action and long term management strategies
• Reduce the nutrient runoff from farms while supporting farm productivity in partnership with Western Dairy, Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, farmers and local groups.
• Work with local groups to restore stream function, move stock away from waterways and improve water quality by implementing river action plans
• Support increased monitoring and modelling of the Leschenault Estuary and its catchments.