The Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront (TBW) project continues to breathe new life into Bunbury’s waterfront with work continuing on Stages 2 and 3.
This year’s biggest achievement was securing the strategic environmental approval for the first phase of TBW Stage 3. The Casuarina Boat Harbour (CBH) proposal, which includes a breakwater and associated marine facilities, commenced delivery in August with dredging for the breakwater footprint carried out by joint venture partners WA Limestone Contracting and Italia Stone Group as part of the largest contract of the TBW $78.1 million project.
Other project achievements throughout the year included:
- Completion of the BP Beach car park on Casuarina Drive. These works connected the surrounding footpaths and cycle paths and provided flush footpath connections to accessible parking bays designed to accommodate long vehicles with rear-loading hoists.
- Installation of retaining walls and dune fencing on the eastern and western sides of Casuarina Drive. The fencing is designed to protect the dunes and reduce sand drift onto the pathways and Casuarina Drive. The new year will deliver land side works above the retaining walls including stairs to the beach, pathways, shade and seating.
- Award of the contract to Andrew Frazer Designs to construct two sculptures that will book-end Jetty Baths Park and encourage people to venture to each end of the Jetty Baths precinct. The unique public artwork will pay tribute to the working harbour, with the nearby Bunbury Lighthouse as a source of inspiration. The sculptures will highlight how the striking landmark serves as a beacon that communicates through light and safely guides seafarers. We can’t wait!
- An expressions of Interest process conducted earlier in the year for the refurbishment and operation of one, two or all three of the large industrial sheds currently leased in CBH. Some exciting possibilities have emerged, so stay tuned.
- Marine fauna monitoring by the Dolphin Discovery Centre on dolphin activity in proximity to the breakwater works. The project team is also working with various agencies and the Bunbury Birdlife members to protect the Banded Lapwings and Australian Fairy Terns in the harbour.
- Public engagement through various webinars, community information drop-in sessions, presentations and even a couple of boat tours of the project area throughout the year. The Enjoying Our Waterfront Since Forever exhibition also featured at the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre.
