A $78.1 million commitment from the McGowan Government will pave the way for further transformation of Bunbury's waterfront, building on the considerable work already undertaken to unlock the potential of the South-West coastal city.
Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront - Stage Three, Phase One will focus on the delivery of critical infrastructure that will provide foundations for long-term growth. The new funding is on top of the $34.4 million invested in Stages 1 and 2 of the project.
A key area of concentration will be the construction of new breakwaters at Casuarina Boat Harbour and Koombana Bay to support further land and marine infrastructure development.
The establishment of hardstand areas and enabling infrastructure, as well as a site to develop an onshore boat stacking facility is expected to attract investment in a marine lifting and servicing precinct at Casuarina Boat Harbour.
Landside civil works at Casuarina Boat Harbour will improve services, roads, landscaping, parking, and include upgrades to existing boat launching facilities and new public amenities.
At Koombana Bay, the establishment of a breakwater is expected to be a catalyst for investment in a proposed future marina incorporating boat pens to allow safe year-round mooring of boats.
The Koombana Bay breakwater will provide public recreation facilities including a promenade, fishing jetty and swimming platform with universal access.
The first phase of Stage Three of Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront is subject to environmental approvals, with the release of funds subject to a business case.
The Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront precinct stretches from Koombana Bay to Casuarina Boat Harbour.
Stage One of Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront resulted in the revitalisation of the Koombana Foreshore and the redevelopment of the Dolphin Discovery Centre. Through Stage Two, the Jetty Road causeway is being upgraded and Casuarina Drive will be redeveloped.
As stated by Premier Mark McGowan:
"The announcement of funding towards Stage Three marks a significant milestone in this project and an exciting time for Bunbury as it takes the next step in its transformation.
"Bunbury really is a fantastic place to live and visit - and the Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront project is increasing its appeal even further. It will also deliver a major boost to the local economy and create local jobs.
"This new funding will continue to take Bunbury forward, elevating this vibrant coastal city's appeal as a place to live and visit.
"If you haven't visited Bunbury in a while, I encourage you to Wander out Yonder and experience this wonderful part of our State for yourself. While there, I encourage you to visit the Koombana Foreshore and Dolphin Discovery Centre - both of which were transformed through earlier stages of this project - and are connected back to the central business district via a striking landmark bridge that is illuminated in coloured lighting at night."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Not only is the project transforming the city's landscape and creating brilliant spaces for locals and visitors to spend time in, it is also producing short and long-term economic benefits.
"The Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront project has an excellent track record for creating work opportunities for local businesses and residents.
"The State Government's commitment to local content will continue into the next stage, giving very capable local businesses in the South-West the opportunity to help further transform the waterfront.
"Significantly, phase one of Stage Three will set the scene for private sector investment and opportunities."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"I'm pleased our Government has allocated additional funding for this important Bunbury project.
"Stage 3 will open up more opportunities for local businesses and workers, while also providing additional local boating infrastructure and services.
"Stage 2 is progressing well and is on track for completion later this year."
As stated by Bunbury MLA Don Punch:
"This project has its origins in the 1980s when the then Labor Government conceived the Bunbury 2000 plan to transform our city, so I am very proud to be a part of the McGowan Government that is now delivering on that vision.
"The benefits of this project to our community are immense in that it will create opportunities for local businesses, deliver local jobs and provide vital infrastructure for the future of our city.
"Stage Three of Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront will bring our city one step closer to fully embracing its waterfront and realising its potential as a contemporary coastal city."
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6200
