Noted as the location where Captain Matthew Flinders commenced the first mapping of the Australian coastline in 1801, Flinders Bay and the Augusta township has a strong maritime history which is further enriched by the construction of the new boat harbour.
The world class facility is a working harbour catering for the growing commercial and recreational fleet in the area, and will allow both local residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Flinders Bay and explore all the surrounding area has to offer.
Augusta Margaret River Tourism Chief Executive Officer Pip Close advised that the harbour was a landmark development which would unquestionably boost tourism to the Augusta area and the wider Margaret River Region.
"Augusta is a stunning township on the banks of the thriving Blackwood River, boasting spectacular natural and historical attractions - including the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse," said Ms Close.
"The new harbour will undoubtedly further improve accessibility and increase destination awareness of Augusta and the Margaret River Region, and we are delighted to celebrate its successful completion," she said.
Funding for the new harbour included $34.6 million from the State Government's Royalties for Regions program and allocations from the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme and the Department of Transport's Maritime Facilities Program.
Mike Smart, Shire President of Augusta Margaret River advised that the local community was extremely excited to see the long awaited facility reach completion.
"The harbour will be an additional drawcard to what is already an outstanding tourism destination," said Mr Smart.
"It will provide safe boating access for one of the best whale watching destinations in Australia, as well as suppoting recreational boating, a commercial fishery and the offshore abalone aquaculture farm," he said.
Construction of the Augusta Boat Harbour commenced in October 2011 and was completed in November 2014. The habour will be officially launched this Friday 21 November 2014 from 10am to 2pm, with the official ceremony commencing at 12 noon.
For more information visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/augusta.
The State's newest regional maritime infrastructure project delivers:
• 2.8 hectares of sheltered water and five hectares of land for safe and sustainable boating access to the ocean;
• A facility with appropriate infrastructure to service the region's commercial and tourism fleet;
• A regional boating facility for smaller recreational vessels; and
• Commercial land development opportunities.
Harbour features include:
• A four lane boat launching facility with floating finger jetties;
• A 50m land backed service wharf;
• 40 boat pens for commercial and recreational vessels;
• Navigation aids;
• Car and trailer parking for 160 vehicles;
• Car parking for 80 vehicles;
• Four fully serviced land development lots for marine related purposes;
• Amenities building and pavilion;
• Services, security, lighting paths and landscaping.
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