Construction of the northern breakwater at Bunbury’s Casuarina Boat Harbour in Western Australia has reached a significant milestone, with the 460-metre structure now completed to its full extent at low level. The $69.2 million AUD breakwater forms the centrepiece of the State Government’s Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront (TBW) project, which aims to redevelop the area into a regional marine industry hub.
The breakwater is already delivering improved harbour protection ahead of winter and paving the way for further development. Land reclamation is currently underway to support future boat lifting and servicing operations at the harbour. Once fully developed, the vision for Casuarina Boat Harbour includes capacity for up to 300 boat pens and expanded facilities for the local marine sector.
Oversight of the breakwater project is being managed by the Department of Transport, working in close collaboration with lead agency the South West Development Commission. The construction is being delivered by a joint venture between WA Limestone Contracting and Italia Stone Group, both locally based companies. Rock material for the breakwater was sourced from quarries at Roelands, Byford, Shenton Ridge and Jarrahdale. Full-height completion of the breakwater is scheduled for the end of 2025.
A new universal access fishing platform, valued at $4 million, is also set to be constructed along the northern side of the breakwater. Located approximately one-third of the way along the structure, the platform will adjoin a new precinct catering to community and visitor needs.
The breakwater is part of the broader Stage 3.1 of the TBW initiative, which is backed by $78.1 million in funding from the Cook Government. The programme aims to stimulate local economic growth by enhancing infrastructure for tourism and marine industries, while also creating public amenities and jobs.
Since its launch in 2015, the Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront initiative has delivered multiple upgrades across Koombana Bay and Casuarina Boat Harbour. Completed works include the award-winning Koombana Foreshore revitalisation, the Dolphin Discovery Centre redevelopment and the Jetty Road Causeway upgrade. The ongoing Casuarina Drive Redevelopment continues to improve the area’s accessibility and public spaces.
As the northern breakwater progresses towards full completion, the Department of Transport remains committed to delivering long-term assets that will enhance the maritime capability of Bunbury and provide lasting value to the community and marine industries.
