STOLEN water tanks have now been reinstated at the Helena and Waalegh campsites restoring an important water source for hikers.

Three tanks were stolen along the Bibbulmun track earlier this year impacting hikers who relied on the water as reported in DBCA: Concrete water tank replacements not feasible.

The Bibbulmun Track Foundation posted a Facebook update on March 24, thanking all community members for sharing updates and supporting one another as the issue was being resolved.

“These tanks play a valuable role in supporting walkers, particularly across longer stretches between shelters,” they said.

“While everyone should still plan to carry enough water, it’s reassuring to see this infrastructure back in place.

“If you’re heading out this way soon, you can once again rely on tanks at both sites.”

Bibbulmun Track Foundation chief executive officer Su-Mita Hill said the tanks had been replaced and refilled by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) Mundaring team.

“Walkers have been very pleased to see the tanks reinstated and have expressed strong appreciation for the crews who worked to return them to the campsites as quickly as possible,” she said.

“During the period the tanks were absent, we are aware of at least one instance where a walker was directly impacted by reduced access to water at a campsite.

“We encourage walkers to continue reporting any issues relating to track infrastructure to both the foundation and DBCA so they can be addressed as quickly as possible.

“As a non-profit powered by dedicated volunteers and community support, we rely on track users and community working together to keep everyone safe.”

Ms Hill said she encouraged people to be considerate as water remains an essential and limited resource in the environment that the track passes through.

“We would also encourage the broader community to recognise the importance of these assets for walkers undertaking multi-day journeys, and the impact that damage or theft can have on safety and shared experience along the track,” she said.

Police are continuing to investigate the initial theft and anyone with information is urged to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.