Visitors and boaters are set to benefit from the construction of two new jetties at the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park.
A tender has been released by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) for the construction of the jetties on East Wallabi and Beacon islands to improve vessel access to the islands.
The East Wallabi Island jetty will cater for larger vessels of up to 20 metres in length and the Beacon Island jetty smaller vessels up to 12 metres long.
Located about 60 kilometres west of Geraldton, the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park was the first national park created under the McGowan Government's Plan for Our Parks initiative.
The jetty construction is part of a $10 million investment into tourism and management infrastructure in the national park. Future plans include the construction of new toilets, shade shelters, walk trails and visitor interpretation. The airstrip on East Wallabi Island will also be upgraded.
East Wallabi and Beacon islands are listed as historically significant sites for their maritime heritage values, including the Batavia and other shipwrecks. DBCA continues to consult with the Western Australian Museum and the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to ensure the jetty design and construction protects the heritage of the islands and adheres to relevant legislation.
The two jetties are expected to be completed by early 2021.
Tender information can be viewed at http://www.tenders.wa.gov.au
As stated by Acting Environment Minister Francis Logan:
"The McGowan Government created the Houtman Abrolhos Islands National Park to ensure the protection of the area's unique conservation values and to open it up to new tourism opportunities.
"The Abrolhos Islands are steeped in history and the site of numerous shipwrecks, most notably the Batavia. We will be ensuring all development is managed in the appropriate way, with heritage and environmental protection key focuses.
"By improving visitor facilities on the islands, we are creating new possibilities for nature-based tourism and recreation, resulting in new jobs and economic opportunities for the Mid-West."
