Jurien Bay Breakwater Extension Funded in 2024-25 State Budget
The northern breakwater at Jurien Bay Boat Harbour will be extended by 170 metres as part of a $17.5 million entrance reconfiguration, funded under the Cook Labor Government’s 2024-25 State Budget. This project aims to address seagrass build-up, improve water quality, and encourage private investment, ensuring the harbour reaches its full potential.
Cook Government Invests $17.5 Million in Jurien Bay Boat Harbour
The Cook Government is allocating $17.5 million in the 2024-25 State Budget to reconfigure the Jurien Bay Boat Harbour breakwater. This investment follows extensive scientific investigations to determine the optimal solution for the annual accumulation of seagrass wrack, which has negatively affected water quality, leading to fish kills and beach closures.
Addressing Seagrass Build-Up and Improving Water Quality
The project aims to address the seagrass build-up, which has been a persistent problem at the harbour. Modelling studies indicate that the harbour entrance reconfiguration will redirect approximately 80% of the wrack movement away from the harbour, reducing the chances of decomposition and water deoxygenation. This reconfiguration is expected to improve water quality significantly.
Stimulating Private Investment and Development
This significant project, expected to span four years, will lower the frequency of necessary maintenance dredging and attract private investment through leasehold development within the harbour. The Department of Transport (DoT), the Harbour Manager, will oversee the project, with design and construction contracts anticipated to be awarded next year.
Minister David Michael’s Comments on the Project
Minister Assisting the Transport Minister David Michael commented, “The boat harbour has tremendous potential to develop as a commercial hub for the maritime sector, a key base for the fishing industry, and a prime spot for tourism and charter operators due to its proximity to the Jurien Bay Marine Park. Despite increased tourism, residential, and commercial investment in the area, harbour development has been limited. This project is expected to unlock the facility’s full potential.”
Economic Benefits and Local Contractor Involvement
The project will also benefit the regional economy, with locally sourced rock for the breakwater and opportunities for local contractors to participate. Minister Michael emphasized the importance of rigorous scientific investigations and extensive consultations with the Shire of Dandaragan, other State Government agencies, harbour users, and the local community in determining the project’s direction and ensuring its successful implementation.
Agricultural Region MLC Sandra Carr’s Support
Agricultural Region MLC Sandra Carr added, “I’m thrilled to have collaborated with the Shire of Dandaragan to secure this funding from the Cook Government for such a crucial project for Jurien Bay. This project will not only enhance the boat harbour’s amenities but also create local employment and economic opportunities.”
By focusing on these key areas, the Jurien Bay breakwater extension project is poised to address critical environmental issues, stimulate economic growth, and unlock the harbour’s full potential as a commercial and tourism hub.