Media Statements - Government funding gives new life to Busselton Jetty (with pic.)

9/1/01

One of the South-West’s favourite attractions - the historic Busselton Jetty - will be given a new lease of life through State Government funding announced today.

Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan said that $400,000 would be spent on restoration of the 1.85km jetty, which is a major tourist drawcard and recreational facility for the area.

Mr Cowan said the work would include extensive repairs to a 70m section of the jetty destroyed by fire a year ago.

He made the funding announcement at the new Busselton Jetty Interpretive Centre, which was officially opened today by Acting Prime Minister John Anderson.

“When this work is completed, residents of the South-West and visitors to the town will have a wonderful leisure facility which can be enjoyed by people of all ages, particularly during the summer holiday period,” Mr Cowan said.

“It will be a major asset for the tourism industry, with spin-offs for the local economy.”

Mr Cowan said the South West Development Commission (SWDC) would administer the Government funding, allowing arrangements for the repairs to be finalised.

For its part, the Commonwealth has already committed a total of $800,000 to support the construction of an underwater observatory at the jetty. This will allow people to directly view the unique coral growth in and around the jetty structure.

“The funding announced today will clear the way for the Busselton Jetty Management Committee to progress its proposed Underwater Observatory and eco-museum, which will add further value to the attraction of the jetty,” Mr Cowan said.

He commended the local community for championing the cause of the jetty.

He said the management committee, established under the auspices of Busselton Shire, had raised more than $3 million in recent years towards jetty reconstruction and enhancement.

The new interpretive centre opened by Mr Anderson today will give visitors a unique glimpse into the fascinating past of the Busselton Jetty and Geographe Bay.

“It will also provide an interactive educational experience showcasing marine and terrestrial aspects of the bay’s environment,” Mr Anderson said.

“A walk along this historic jetty will become a more interesting and educational experience, as well as an enjoyable activity.

“The local community has done a fantastic job by working to restore and enhance this wonderful facility.”

Funding for the $500,000 interpretive centre has come from the SWDC, Lotteries Commission and Shire of Busselton with in-kind support from the community.

Media contacts:
Peter Jackson (Minister’s office) 9222-8788
Don Punch (SWDC) 9792-2000

The new Interpretive Centre at the historic Busselton jetty.

Deputy Prime Minister John Anderson (centre) and Deputy Premier Hendy Cowan (right)
take in the view from the soon to be refurbished jetty with management committee president Allie Scott.