AFTER two years without access, the gates to Kilsby’s Sinkhole at Mount Schank are once again open to members of the Cave Divers Association of Australia.
A new access agreement between the association and the Kilsby family now fulfills the objectives of both parties, paving the way for the association to regularly visit the site after a number of initial dives last weekend.
Famous for its crystal clear water and static diving conditions, the hole offers spectacular views from above and beneath the water’s surface.
Limestone cliffs rise to 20 metres from the water’s surface, encircling the tranquil pool which reaches a maximum depth of 63 metres.
Sinkhole site access manager Ben Kilsby told The Border Watch the Kilsby family had been working to diversify access to the unique site over the past three years.
He said diversifying access was in response to an ever-increasing interest in the sinkhole’s use for a range of activities, including sightseeing and photography, snorkelling, freediving and “open water” recreational diving activity.
To achieve this, the family has worked with insurers, legal advisers and diving industry representatives to develop a safety framework which guides all aspects of site access.
“It’s been a significant undertaking to build an access model that was both responsible and sustainable,” said Graham Kilsby, fourth generation operator of the family-owned farm that surrounds the sinkhole.
“Naturally, any underwater activity has an element of risk and it was important from the outset that we developed a model which worked to ensure the safety of our guests.”
Ben Kilsby said the family felt a responsibility to share the site with others.
“As a region, we have amazing natural attractions that are among some of the most unique in the world,” he said.
“It is important these sites are accessible to people for a variety of uses – not just to look at, but to interact and engage with.”
Since diversifying access, the Kilsby family has welcomed thousands of new visitors to the site and has received positive feedback – not only from visitors, but also from local businesses.
“Over the past three years, numerous investments have been made at the site, including landscaping, the installation of lighting, toilets and showers and the creation of change rooms, training spaces and barbecue/kitchenette areas,” Ben said.
“Plans are in place for the installation of a new viewing platform, which will greatly enhance the viewing of the sinkhole from the ground level.”
Ben said the CDAA played an important role in the industry by maintaining standards regarding the safe access to caves and other fresh water sites where advanced levels of training is paramount.
“We look forward to working alongside the CDAA to continue to promote the unique, world renowned diving opportunities Mount Gambier has on offer,” he said.
Kilsby Sinkhole can be visited through booking with a licensed guide.
Visit www.kilsbysinkhole.com if interested in diving the site.
