State Government to fund feasibility study into world class ocean pool on Bunbury’s iconic waterfront

The State Government has made the biggest financial commitment yet to Bunbury’s plans for an ocean pool, funding a feasibility study to test the waters on what would be a significant tourism drawcard for the coastal city. Minister for Lands and Sport and Recreation Tony Buti visited Bunbury today to announce $250,000 will go towards the study, which will be carried out by the City of Bunbury. The pool, which has been a hotly debated concept in Bunbury for more than a century, is earmarked for Wyalup-Rocky Point, the site of a former basalt quarry. The study will include an environmental assessment, an Aboriginal heritage assessment and geotechnical investigations, however an initial study carried out by the City of Bunbury in August found there to be no fatal flaws with the concept at the proposed location. The funding for the study was a Labor Party commitment at the State election in March. Mr Buti said given the historic nature of the concept, the latest funding, which is the largest ever financial commitment to the project, is a significant milestone. “This is an exciting milestone given this idea has been on the table since the 1890’s and a number of design concepts have been floated over the past decade,” he said. “The McGowan Government is delivering on its election commitment to fund the feasibility study which will provide a deeper understanding of the cost of planning, construction and operating the ocean pool. “The potential to create another beachside pool in Western Australia is an exciting proposition for tourism, recreation and local jobs. “We look forward to seeing the results of the study.” Bunbury MLA Don Punch said the stretch of Bunbury coast where the pool is earmarked for is a key part of Bunbury’s tourist appeal and said he was pleased the Government were able to support the City of Bunbury. “I am very pleased this election commitment that will support the City of Bunbury to full assess the possibility of an ocean pool, something that has been a long time aspiration for many in our community, has been delivered,” he said. “The Back Beach is such an asset for Bunbury and the outcome of this feasibility study will help guide the future development of this area.” The City of Bunbury has already allocated $50,000 towards the project in the 2021-22 budget.