Premier Colin Barnett and Minister for Regional Development Terry Redman were at the Dolphin Discovery centre on Thursday to reveal a detailed look at the imminent Koombana Bay upgrades.
The concept plan for Koombana Bay is a part of the Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront Project and showed off an amphitheatre, renovated kiosk, playground, picnic areas, as well as improved parking facilities.
During his visit Mr Barnett said the works will greatly enhance the foreshore and strengthen the link between the city’s waterfront, central business district and the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
“Once complete, there will be both economic and community benefits, with improved public amenity and a boost to tourism, which will be great for local businesses,” he said.
“The project is expected to support 117 jobs through the construction phase and 42 ongoing full-time roles through expanded tourism expenditure across Greater Bunbury.”
The precinct forms part of the first stage of the wider Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront project, which also includes the redevelopment of the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
Mr Redman announced Perkins Builders have been awarded the contract for carrying out the forward works for the upgrade and expansion of the Dolphin Discovery Centre with works expected to begin early next month.
A total of $24.9 million had been allocated by the Liberal National Government to revitalise Koombana Bay and redevelop the Dolphin Discovery Centre.
The Koombana Bay foreshore revitalisation will be managed by the City of Bunbury, and works are expected to begin by early April.
Mr Barnett also said as well as the improved waterfront the relocation of the Department of Parks and Wildlife would be of benefit to the community, providing jobs as well as marking the first regional stationing of a major government department.
“The people of Bunbury should not underestimate the benefit the Department of Parks and Wildlife relocation is going to have on the city,” Premier Barnett said.
