A year-long project at Batavia Coast Marina in Geraldton has delivered new berthing capacity for vessels, with 34 extra boat berths and a floating jetty now complete. The expansion supports marine tourism and recreational boating in Western Australia’s Midwest.
The $3.3 million AUD project was funded under the WA Recovery Plan and has expanded the marina’s capacity from 84 to 118 berths. Some of the new facilities can berth vessels up to 25 metres, which addresses demand from both recreational and commercial operators.
SMC Marine Western Australia delivered the design and construction of the project, which supported six full-time jobs and engaged three Geraldton subcontractors for specialist work in electrical, plumbing and fabrication. Indigenous-owned Ugle Fabrications also contributed by producing mooring rope rings for the new jetty piles.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the development was designed to support both the economy and tourism: “This has been a fantastic project that has not only supported local jobs during construction but will help the local marine-based tourism industry continue to grow. Economic growth and job creation are one of our government’s top priorities, and investing critical infrastructure that supports the Midwest’s tourism industry is a key way of delivering in these important areas.”
The Department of Transport manages the marina, which now continues to accommodate the Batavia Longboat, a replica vessel that reflects the region’s maritime history. The Batavia Coast Replica Boat Association accepted the reserved berth, ensuring the craft remains accessible to the public.
MLC Sandra Carr stated the benefit of accommodating more vessels alongside retaining the Batavia Longboat: “These news pens are a great new addition, allowing significantly more boats to be penned at the marina, and I am thrilled the Batavia Longboat will continue to be accommodated at the facility at their chosen location, providing improved access to the vessel. It’s a great result that will see the replica craft remain visible to the public and also add to the experience of those visiting the nearby museum.”
The contract was awarded in September 2024, with SMC Marine undertaking works following a competitive tender. The company has experience delivering coastal infrastructure across Western Australia.
