Replacement for the damaged Hamelin Pool boardwalk in Shark Bay is underway.
The 260-metre boardwalk will cost $4.6 million and restore visitor access while protecting ancient stromatolites in the area.
Stromatilites are layered, sedimentary rock structures and are some of the oldest living fossils on earth.
The original boardwalk was severely damaged by Cyclone Seroja in April 2021 and subsequently closed, a full replacement was required to minimise environmental impacts on the stromatolites.
Extensive planning and approvals were required due to the site’s remote location and environmental sensitivity, with works needing a specialist construction approach to protect this internationally significant area.
Hamelin Pool is located within the Shark Bay World Heritage Area in the Gascoyne region, approximately 694km South of Perth.
Gascoyne Minister Hannah Beazley says the Hamelin Pool stromatolites have always been a popular attraction for visitors to Shark Bay.
“The new boardwalk is 30 metres longer than the old one and is designed to allow visitors to fully experience the beauty of this natural wonder,” Ms Beezley said.
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