The not-for-profit behind a $32 million plan to build Australia’s largest natural marine observatory at Busselton has lodged its plans with the federal government today.
The not-for-profit organisation behind a $32 million plan to build Australia’s largest natural marine observatory in the South West has lodged its plans with the federal government in the hope of beginning construction as early as next year.
The Australian Underwater Discovery Centre project, spearheaded by community organisation Busselton Jetty Inc, would involve the installation of a large, whale-shaped underwater observatory featuring a dining space and art gallery at the existing Busselton Jetty.
The proposal, which has already received $22.5 million in state and federal government support, will have capacity for 140 visitors and has been modelled on the existing 16-year-old observatory at the site.
Busselton Jetty Inc hopes the new development will help to boost revenue through increased visitation to the jetty, which already draws more than 400,000 people each year.
The observatory will be fabricated offsite by Henderson-based subsea solutions company Subcon Blue Solutions and towed 185 kilometres to Busselton, where it will be installed in eight metres of water 1.7km along the jetty.
The observatory is expected to be installed in late 2022, with the Busselton Jetty Inc having secured the remaining funds through reserves and a self-supporting loan with the local government.
But according to the organisation’s referral to the federal Department of Agriculture, Water and Environment, which was lodged today, the organisation is eager to expedite the project, with the government grants due to expire in December 2022.
According to the submission, the site is home to 68 threatened marine mammals, fish, reptiles and bird species, with underwater noise generated by piling, marine debris, hydrocarbon spill and vessel strike listed among the most significant potential impacts of the proposed development.
It is understood the plan has received in-principle support from the traditional landowners, with no registered Aboriginal Heritage Sites identified within the development envelope.
Previous estimates published by Busselton Jetty Inc indicate the project would support almost 200 jobs during construction and hundreds more once operational, returning $200 million in economic benefit to WA.
At 1.8km, the Busselton Jetty is the longest tourist jetty in the Southern Hemisphere.
