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State Government announces $4m pontoon jetty for Albany Waterfront Marina

Headshot of Melissa Sheil
Melissa SheilAlbany Advertiser
Albany member Rebecca Stephens MLA and Department of Transport operations manager Kriss Logan.
Camera IconAlbany member Rebecca Stephens MLA and Department of Transport operations manager Kriss Logan. Credit: Karen Timmins/Rebecca Stephens Member for Albany

Albany’s Waterfront Marina could soon get a $4 million pontoon jetty that will ease congestion and facilitate boat access for people with disability.

The project was announced on Tuesday in the State Government’s pre-budget announcement as part of a $165m outdoor adventure package designed to boost tourism in regional WA.

Member for Albany Rebecca Stephens said although the design was not finalised, the new facility would be near the existing public jetty pontoon and be larger to facilitate current charter operators and create room for new ones.

Vessels battle for space at the congested Albany Waterfront Marina.
Camera IconVessels battle for space at the congested Albany Waterfront Marina. Credit: Laurie Benson

“I know there is competing demand for public and commercial use of the existing pontoon in the Albany Waterfront Marina,” she said.

“It will be available for recreational and small charter vessel passenger embarking and disembarking, and will be designed and built to universal access standards.

“Enriching the recreational infrastructure available in Albany and the Great Southern region will enhance its attraction as a place to take the family for an adventure-packed holiday or lifestyle while boosting activity for small businesses and increasing employment options.”

The hefty price tag covers a range of project costs, including site investigation, approvals and detailed design and construction for piling works.

Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said the investment aimed to emphasise the region’s natural landscapes.

“Western Australia is famous for its stunning beaches and natural landscapes like our national parks and hiking trails — these are some of the key drawcards in bringing tourists to our beautiful State,” she said.

By improving and investing in these facilities and sites, we’re ensuring Western Australia remains a world-class tourism destination of choice for travellers, particularly in our regions.

Not all are pleased with the pre-budget announcement, with shadow minister for Tourism Louise Kingston MLC calling the funding an act of the State Government “scrambling to cover up the wounds” left in the tourism sector.

“I cannot think of another government who has closed as many tourism attractions as the Cook Labor Government,” she said.

“The Government’s announcement comes after months of backlash from tourism operators, regional tourism organisations, communities, and growing pressure from the WA Opposition.”

The new short-stay pontoon jetty will be the largest one in the marina.
Camera IconThe new short-stay pontoon jetty will be the largest one in the marina. Credit: Laurie Benson

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