Since asbestos was banned in Australia in 2003, there has been a gradual clearing of the hazardous material over the years from buildings and schools. But what about tourist stops? Rottnest Island for example, has had its buildings cleared of any asbestos remnants in order to continue functioning as a holiday destination. But what about the smaller places? Donnelly River was a timber mill that ran for 30 years, located near Bridgetown in the Shire of Nannup. Despite it's location, the small - decommissioned town is still used as a popular rural getaway for many families year-round.

Due to the age of the cottages, many are beginning to weather and fall apart. This raises a huge concern for any asbestos that remains in the buildings and their materials.

If the asbestos is allowed to remain, many families will start being exposed to the carcinogenic substance - leading to potential health issues and cancers when they're older.

I believe that semi-urgent action needs to be taken, as when I visited the town last year many of the buildings were always beginning to decay. If the town is to remain open to tourists and the public, this asbestos issue MUST be dealt with. Due to the town being heritage listed in 2006, the complete demolition of the town is not an option, but rather the renewal of the existing cottages. I would love to see such a beautiful town renewed, looking as it once did whole being free of asbestos.