Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)
From 1921 to about 1945 the Military used the area bounded by Gnangara Drive, The Indian Ocean, Old Mandurah Road and Dampier Drive, Golden Bay, as a live firing range. As a consequence these areas were polluted by unexploded ordnance.
As the area is subdivided the developers are required to search lots to a nominal depth for the UXO’s and remove them in safe manner. Similarly whenever a site within the area is to be developed, which includes any digging (such as is associated with service connections, swimming pool installation, or effluent disposal system replacement maintenance, demolition works amongst other things) a search must be undertaken prior to the development commencing.
A significant piece of UXO (18lb shrapnel round) has been found under a demolished dwelling, so existing development may not be indicative of a search being undertaken on the lot, there may have been only a partial, if any, search conducted.
Contact the UXO Branch of the FESA by telephoning 9527 9668 for information regarding the particular lot prior to any works commencing (including digging) when the lot is in the area as defined above.
NOTE: Unexploded ordinance has potential for extreme danger. Do not handle any material considered to be UXO make the site safe and contact Emergency Services (preferably the UXO Branch or Police Fire Brigade if UXO branch uncontactable).
