Ventia is set to commence rebuild and refurbishment works for the iconic Australind Jetty, with the Western Australian Government overseeing the management of the 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 tourists over the past 30 years.
Following a deterioration in the jetty’s condition, the Shire of Harvey and the Western Australian Department of Water and Environmental Regulation deemed the structure unsafe for public use, closing 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.
Western Australian Water Minister, Dave Kelly, announced that the State Government would allocate $3 million to the refurbishment project, which is now in a scoping phase.
“The Australind Jetty is a valued community asset, and it is important for it to be safe and accessible again,” Mr Kelly said.
“The State Government is committed to restoring this iconic jetty for the safe use of the local community and tourists for generations to come.”
Western Australian Transport Minister, Rita Saffioti, said the refurbishment will open many recreational opportunities to local residents.
“The upgrades mean the Australind Jetty will soon be open again for locals and visitors to access a variety of recreational activities,” Ms Saffioti said.
“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.”
Member for Collie-Preston, Jodie Hanns, said, “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.
“Although community members were disappointed with the closure of the jetty, they will be pleased to learn that the State Government has honoured its pledge to restore it and that work has started so it can be safely enjoyed by the public once more.”
