Koombana Bay dreams come true

Bunbury is a step closer to transforming its foreshore into a tourism mecca with the State Government announcing a start to Koombana Bay’s redevelopment next month.

Premier Colin Barnett and Regional Development Minister Terry Redman are in Bunbury today to reveal final concept plans for Stage One of the $24.9 million Royalties for Regions Growing Our South development which is part of the Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront project.

Stage one of the development features an amphitheatre, renovated kiosk and playground with works expected to start in April, in addition to the Government’s commitment of $20.73 million from Royalties for Regions for the second stage at Casuarina Harbour.

“We’re another step closer to Bunbury having a greatly enhanced foreshore that will strengthen the link between the city’s waterfront, central business district and a major tourist attraction,” Mr Barnett said.

“Once complete, there will be economic and community benefits, with improved public amenity and a boost to tourism, which will be great for local businesses.”

Mr Redman said the plan included the redevelopment of the Dolphin Discovery Centre by Perkins Builders, starting early next month.

“The dolphin centre will be transformed into a world-class attraction to encourage more people to visit and explore what the city has to offer,” he said.

Mayor Gary Brennan said the Bunbury City Council had been working hard behind the scenes on the design component and planning for the Koombana Bay foreshore.

“The exciting part is that we’re now seeing action after many years of meticulous planning,” he said.

“It is exciting times for Bunbury and people will start to get used to construction from the Dolphin Discovery Centre down to the Koombana North redevelopment.”

Bunbury MLA John Castrilli said after many years of advocating for this project it was exciting to see it moving forward.

“Our city is being revitalised and this next phase will build on the immense infrastructure growth of recent years,” he said.

“Capitalising on our unique waterfront location is a no-brainer and this will make Bunbury an even better place to live.”