The Kauli Lake Amenity

The Kauli Lake Amenity

Once the labour line compound and forestry store had been removed from the former nursery site at Kauli lake, the decision was made to turn this location into an amenity for the community of Wau. The existence of this small lake on the ridge near Kauli Creek had always been an intriguing natural feature. It also benefitted from having a magnificent view over the Wau Valley.

As part of the site cleanup, it was decided to clear and burn some surrounding regrowth and to poison the extensive kau kau (sweet potato) gardens using herbicide. An unfortunate occurrence during the burn-off was that a spot fire in the neighboring Hoop plantation not being noticed in time and about an acre of plantation was destroyed.

Extensive effort was put into the establishment of ornamentals, pathways, etc. around the lake. Some planting material was even flown in from Port Moresby. The resulting efforts were quickly appreciated by Wau townspeople, who used the site for family picnics. One family even had a small sailing boat brought up to use on the lake.

Wau 1963. Source PNGAA.