Busselton is set to have an underwater observatory, after the federal government committed $13 million to the project as part of its Regional Growth Fund.
The planned Busselton Australian Underwater Centre will be located at the iconic Busselton Jetty, and will include an elliptical shaped observatory centre.
The $13 million from the government will cover the cost of construction.
Construction on the centre is expected to begin in October 2020 and be completed by June 2022.
Member for Forrest Nola Marino said the observatory centre would have the largest underwater windows onto the natural environment in the world.
“The Busselton Jetty is one of the most popular attractions in the South West and this development will only increase that popularity,” she said.
There are also plans for the underwater centre to include a function and dining area, underwater lighting for night viewing, as well as the development of underwater habitats and artificial reefs.
Mrs Marino said the development would be a world-class offering and would help secure the jetty’s visitor appeal well into the future.
“This development will add more layers to the whole jetty experience,” she said.
“This way, more individuals, businesses and groups will be able to benefit from this federal government investment in what is a world-class tourism destination here in our South West.”
In 2011, Busselton Jetty Inc, a the voluntary management group, was established to help preserve the jetty amid ongoing concerns about its physical state.
Since establishment, the BJI has contributed over $4 million to ongoing preservation of the jetty.
By Adrian Rauso
