Water Minister Dave Kelly today announced that infrastructure company Ventia will carry out the rebuild and refurbishment works for the Australind Jetty, with the Department of Transport overseeing the management of the refurbishment project. Scoping of the rebuild and refurbishment works is now underway.
The Australind Jetty was originally built in the 1960s as supporting infrastructure for a titanium extraction plant. Since the closure of the factory, the jetty has been a popular attraction for walking and fishing and has been enjoyed by local residents and visiting tourists over the past 30 years.
Following a deterioration in the jetty's condition, the Shire of Harvey and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation deemed the structure no longer safe for public use, and the difficult decision was made to close it to the public in late January 2021.
In May 2021, independent consultants carried out an assessment of the jetty's structural integrity, identifying significant structural issues with the pier and wooden bridges, which require extensive remedial works before the public can safely access the jetty.
Following calls from Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns on behalf of the local community, the McGowan Government allocated $3 million in funding to rebuild the iconic jetty so it can be enjoyed by the community once more.
As stated by Water Minister Dave Kelly:
"The Australind Jetty is a valued community asset, and it is important for it to be safe and accessible again.
"The McGowan government is committed to restoring this iconic jetty for the safe use of the local community and tourists for generations to come."
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The upgrades mean the Australind Jetty will soon be open again for locals and visitors to access a variety of recreational activities.
"The jetty is a unique attraction, which is prized by the community, and the refurbishment means all can enjoy the beauty and biodiversity of the stunning Leschenault Estuary."
As stated by Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns:
"It is exciting to know that scoping of the rebuild and refurbishment works for the Australind Jetty, a place enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, has commenced.
"Although community members were disappointed with the closure of the jetty, they will be pleased to learn that the McGowan Government has honoured its pledge to restore it and that work has started so it can be safely enjoyed by the public once more."
