Project to build Albany artificial surf reef looking to engage lead contractor

The City of Albany development of an artificial surf reef is moving forward with the process to engage a lead contractor for the $11.75 million now underway.

The Southern Ocean Surf Reef project, being delivered by the City of Albany with funds from the Western Australian and Federal governments as well as local funding sources, will be constructed using local quarried rock and aims to improve the seabed conditions at Albany's popular Middleton Beach.

The result is expected to deliver wave breaks of a consistent quality that will be used by surfer groups from beginner to intermediate abilities.

While Western Australia’s Great Southern region does have surf breaks, the closest is about a half-hour drive from Albany and is not accessible by public transport and are not suitable for novice surfers.

By creating the Southern Ocean Surf Reef the council aims to establish Albany as a surfing destination, generating investment in local tourism infrastructure.

The expressions of interest is the first stage of a process to engage a lead contractor for the construction of the reef, which includes rock quarrying, rock placement and marine support works.

Driven by the Albany Boardriders, who have long advocated to bring an accessible surfing site close to the city, Western Australian Regional Development, Minister Don Punch has welcomed the latest stage of the development.

Minister Punch advised yesterday “it is great to see this initiative being driven by the local community which is set to become a unique and accessible tourism drawcard for the Great Southern region.

"The Albany Boardriders and Surfing WA have already committed to holding surf competitions at the site, which bring to Albany the greater regional profiling, tourism, and economic benefits linked to these types of events."

Concurrent with the artificial reef development, an upgrade of facilities at the Albany Surf Life Saving Club has commenced today.

Aiming to improved community safety at Middleton Beach, the redevelopment will boost lifesaving and water safety operations through a centralised lifesaving hub, along with better access to motorised water safety equipment.

The project will also deliver more welcoming facilities with spaces for training, education, and events, ensuring the whole community will benefit from the redevelopment year-round.

The City of Albany, which is managing the project on behalf of the Western Australian Government, awarded the construction contract for the $3.35 million project to Smith Constructions in December.

The Western Australian Government is contributing more than $2.8 million to the enhanced facilities. This support is in addition to contributions from the City of Albany, and the Albany Surf Life Saving Club.

Commenting on the project, Western Australian Premier, Roger Cook stated “funding important community infrastructure projects like the Albany Surf Life Saving Club redevelopment is an example of my Government's strong commitment to delivering for regional Western Australia.

"A project like this supports the local government, community groups, and wider community through the provision of high-quality facilities everyone can benefit from.

"Most importantly, this project will improve lifesaving and water safety operations, which are vital services that save lives."

Images: Concepts for the Southern Ocean Surf Reef project. Credit: City of Albany.