The Bandy Creek Boat Harbour at Esperance will be safeguarded from future flood events following the completion of a $5.1 million replacement weir.
Western Australian company, Italia Stone Group (Pty Ltd) delivered the nine-month project which included moving 10,000 tonnes of earth and rock works and saw 400 tonnes of concrete poured.
The project saw 78 workers employed, supported Aboriginal employment, while also providing opportunities for 25 local Esperance businesses.
Positioned 50 metres upstream from the old weir, the new structure's design has increased capacity to handle flood events and is more resilient.
It also allows tidal flushing and fish movement between the creek and harbour, and there will be no impact on the water level or quality of the Ramsar protected wetlands upstream.
In February 2017, floodwaters caused significant damage including erosion of its foundation and a collapse at the southern end.
The project was funded by insurance, disaster recovery funding arrangements, the Department of Transport and the Water Corporation.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"With the support of the local community the Department of Transport has delivered a well-designed weir that will reduce sediment deposition in the boat harbour, guaranteeing the continued operation of the facility for the local fishing fleet and others.
"The $5.1 million project was completed by local company Italia Stone Group and provided a boost for the local Esperance economy with 56 locals employed during the project, as well as 25 local Esperance businesses engaged during the works."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Darren West:
"I am delighted with the outcome of this project, this will now allow pedestrians, emergency and service vehicles access across the waterway.
"The safeguarding of the harbour operations is important for the local community and the benefits will be felt for many years to come.
"I am proud to be part of the McGowan Government that is once again delivering for the Esperance region."
As stated by Agricultural Region MLC Laurie Graham:
"The damage to the original weir was unfortunate for the local community but I am pleased to have been able to deliver this new and improved weir.
"I'm pleased that this has provided a boost to the local economy and supported local job and business opportunities."
