The Dolphin Discovery Centre’s “part refurbishment, part new build” has taken huge leaps forward, with Perkins Builders confident they can maintain their scheduled completion date.
On Wednesday, August 1, Perkins representatives revealed the project’s current status.
The contractor has begun transforming the existing Dolphin Discovery Centre premises, as personnel work to install a new roof, refurbish the whole interior, and develop a new timber deck on the second floor.
The new building will feature aquariums, kitchen facilities, a reception area, and a cafe.
The main aquarium will soon be shipped to Fremantle Port before being transported to Bunbury.
Perkins Builders is also developing a kiosk as well as multi-use spaces for functions and events on the second floor.
The group even built a new facility designed to house the centre’s marine life during the construction phase.
Their duties also include landscaping and creating disabled access between the main building and the beach.
LotteryWest recently pitched in to help provide funds for the landscaping.
Perkins Builders project manager Jaco Bosman was satisfied with the build and enthusiastic about the centre’s potential benefits.
“Perkins Builders was involved in the forward site works on this project, which saw the relocation of the existing facilities and the construction of a new boat shed next door,” Mr Bosman said.
“We’ve been fortunate enough to be awarded the new build, this has involved going through the whole process.
“We’re running on-schedule despite having some problems with the weather, that has impacted work on the facade and the roof.”
Since construction began in April, the group has brought on 25 local sub-contractors.
Local company MCG Architects put pen to paper to craft a unique design.
Mr Bosman said everyone involved was fixed on creating a state-of-the-art facility for Bunbury.
“When it’s done, we’ll coming here and using the facility,” he said.
“There’s an extra emphasis on making sure it is a really good project.”
Crafting a quality establishment has been Perkins Builders HSCQ officer Dannika Walker’s goal since day one.
“I think it will be an awesome development for Bunbury and will definitely attract a lot of tourists,” she said.
“It’s also nice being able to work with a lot of the local guys.”
Bunbury Development Committee Chairperson Robyn Fenech said she was excited for locals and tourists to visit the facility this Summer.
“It’s great to see it all starting to come together, it’s impressive seeing it in such sheer scale,” she said.
“This is a cornerstone attraction for Bunbury and it’s a major part of the Transforming Bunbury Waterfront project.
“It’s a big investment by the government to really make a grand, tourism-friendly entry statement for Bunbury.”
Perkins confirmed the new-look centre will be completed in late November, ready for Summer and peak tourism times.
Mr Bosman said a soft opening and an official opening event were on the cards.