- $4.6 million investment in tourism infrastructure
on Australia's Coral Coast
- New
boardwalk designed to protect the unique and globally significant stromatolites
- Cook
Labor Government protecting and restoring our environment for future
generations
Replacement of the damaged Hamelin Pool
boardwalk in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area is underway, following the award
of the contract to SMC Marine WA Pty Ltd to deliver the project.
The new 260-metre boardwalk will restore safe visitor access while
protecting the ancient stromatolites - some of the oldest living life forms on earth
and an important part of Shark Bay's World Heritage values.
The original boardwalk was severely damaged by Cyclone Seroja in April
2021 and subsequently closed. At almost 30 years old, the structure was nearing
the end of its service life, with engineering advice confirming full
replacement was required to minimise environmental impacts on the stromatolites.
Extensive planning and approvals were required due to the site's remote
location and environmental sensitivity, with works needing a specialist
construction approach to protect this internationally significant area.
Located around 1.5-hours from Denham, Hamelin Pool is a key tourism
drawcard, attracting visitors from across Australia and overseas to experience
its world‑renowned stromatolites and the broader natural and cultural values of
the Shark Bay World Heritage Area.
For more information, visit Hamelin Pool
Boardwalk Project | Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions
Comments attributed to the Environment Minister
Matthew Swinbourn:
"This is an important milestone for Hamelin Pool, and careful planning
has been essential to ensure the area's unique environmental values are
protected.
"Once complete, the new boardwalk will give people the opportunity to
reconnect with this remarkable place, while ensuring its values are preserved
for the future."
Comments attributed to Gascoyne Minister Hannah
Beazley:
"The Hamelin Pool stromatolites have always been a popular attraction
for visitors to Shark Bay.
"The new boardwalk is 30 metres longer than the old one and is designed
to allow visitors to fully experience the beauty of this natural wonder."
