Artificial Surf Reef Near Mullaloo Beach Deemed Technically Feasible with $15-$24 Million Price Tag
A comprehensive pre-feasibility study commissioned by the City of Joondalup has concluded that constructing an artificial surf reef off Mullaloo Beach is both technically and environmentally feasible. However, the project faces significant financial and regulatory challenges, with estimated costs ranging from $15 million to $24 million.
Study Background and Key Findings
The $50,000 study was initiated in response to a 2022 petition from local surfers, who sought to replace three natural surf breaks lost due to the $272 million Ocean Reef Marina redevelopment. After nearly three years of analysis, the engineering report examined four potential sites south of the marina, identifying two as the most cost-effective and constructible options. These sites, located off Mullaloo Beach, are projected to produce surfable waves up to 70% of the time under favourable conditions.
The report stated, "The study confirms that an ASR at Mullaloo is technically and environmentally feasible, with significant social and recreational benefits." It recommended further steps, including detailed design development, community consultation, environmental assessments, and a full business case to advance the project.
Community and Administrative Responses
Clint Bryan, president of the Mullaloo Boardriders Club, expressed enthusiasm for the study's validation of the reef's potential. "We are stoked to see the artificial surfing reef pre-feasibility study identify four potential locations along our coastline. From the perspective of Mullaloo Boardriders, that's a huge step forward and a really exciting sign that this idea has genuine potential," Bryan said. He highlighted that an artificial reef would enhance wave consistency, support local surf culture, and bring recreational and economic benefits to the Perth region.
Despite the positive findings, the City of Joondalup's administration has recommended referring the project to the State Government due to high costs and jurisdictional issues. City officers noted that all proposed sites are outside the local government boundary, with three located within the Marmion Marine Park, posing environmental and regulatory hurdles. "In view of current major projects under way and the limited resources the city has for such projects, further progression of this project by the city is not considered viable at this time," they stated.
Future Challenges and Next Steps
The project must overcome several major obstacles, including:
- Minimising environmental impacts within the Marmion Marine Park.
- Obtaining necessary environmental approvals.
- Identifying a viable loading facility for construction materials.
- Engaging with regulatory authorities to clarify permissible locations and habitat constraints.
- Securing State Government support and funding.
The Joondalup council is set to vote on March 24 regarding the recommendation to refer the pre-feasibility study to State Government agencies. If approved, subsequent phases will involve creating a detailed design, conducting a full environmental assessment, undertaking community consultation, and developing a comprehensive business case to realise the artificial surf reef project.
