The Wee Jasper Dip Caves include 5 parallel and interconnected caves with multiple entrances. The main walk-in entrance is geologically unstable, and tests have confirmed the presence of asbestos contamination.
Geological instability of the main entrance increases the risk of rock fall and landslips which could result in injury or death. Breathing asbestos fibres increases the risk of serious diseases, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and lung cancer.
Keep yourself safe and do not use the main entrance leading into the Dip Caves.
Summary
Location
Wee Jasper Reserves, Wee Jasper
Dates
Ongoing
Pedestrian changes
No entry to the site as there are safety risks
Key points
- The main walk-in entrance is geologically unstable, increasing the risk of rock fall and landslips, which could result in injury or death.
- Asbestos contamination has been confirmed; breathing asbestos fibres increases the risk of serious diseases.
- Temporary fencing has been installed to restrict access to the main entrance.
- Other entrances have temporary fencing to prevent accidental falls but are not currently closed to the public.
- Fencing measures will remain in place until further investigations are completed.
Impacts
- Temporary fencing has been installed to restrict access to this site. The main walk-in entrance to the Dip Caves remains closed.
- Temporary fencing at other entrances is to prevent accidental falls into the caves. These access points are not currently closed to the public.
- Fencing measures will remain in place until further investigations can be completed. This is for the safety of our crew, users, and pedestrians.
We thank you for your patience and cooperation.
Updates
- Assessing options that could safely permit the reopening of the main entrance to the Dip Caves for a range of users and interest groups.
- Engaging with the community, stakeholders, and interest groups to support decision-making.
- Considering remedial strategies that are sensitive to the requirements of the vulnerable Bent-winged Bat population and address public safety needs.
- Undertaking further studies to inform any proposed works to stabilise the main entrance and / or remove contamination.
- Implementing remedial works as required.
