The Barngarla people are threatening legal action against SA Water to prevent a $313-million desalination plant at Billy Lights Point, claiming it would damage ancient fish traps.

“Historically, culturally, the significance of this place has such great meaning to us,” Port Lincoln Richards family Barngarla elder Aunty Lavinia Richards has told reporters. 

SA Water's Amanda Lewry says engagement has been attempted, but the group has “been unwilling to engage with us”. 

The Barngarla Determination Aboriginal Corporation (BDAC) is allegedly refusing to complete a cultural survey because it does not want the plant to be at the Billy Lights Point site.

South Australian Deputy Premier and Minister for Water Susan Close is yet to comment.