Water Minister Dave Kelly announced early this week that scoping of the refurbishment works for the Australind Jetty with Ventia is underway, with the Department of Transport overseeing the management of the refurbishment project.
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.
Funding for required refurbishment
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.
Water Minister Dave Kelly explained: '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.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said: '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.
Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns said: '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.'
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.
The Australind jetty has been a popular attraction enjoyed by local residents and visiting tourists over the past 30 years and will now be refurbished.
Media statement originally posted on the Government of Western Australia's website at: https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements