STAFF REPORTER
The ageing Taylor Street Jetty in Esperance will be replaced with a new community facility as part of the WA Government’s $14.9 million budget allocation for Esperance Port upgrades.
A dedicated public access berth for local tourism operators and cruise tender vessels is included in Southern Ports’ plans for its new $5 million pilot and lines boat facility.
The new facility will be located on the existing Taylor Street Jetty site on the Esperance foreshore.
A WA Government spokesman said the current jetty, which had been partially closed since 2019, has reached the end of its serviceable life as a port-owned community-used asset and was expected to be demolished within a year.
“The proposed new 70-metre pontoon jetty will include two separate sections – a 50-metre wing to moor the Port of Esperance’s two pilot boats and two lines boats – and a 20-metre section for community use,” he said.
“Port vessels and the section of the jetty that houses them will not be accessible to the public, but the public berth area will be open to recreational and tourism vessels and the Esperance community to enjoy.
“A new breakwater spur is also proposed to protect the facility during storm events and enable 24/7 operability.”
He said detailed design was underway with the new jetty anticipated to be complete in 2026-27.
Tourism and recreation
WA Ports minister David Michael said this would deliver a valuable community asset for tourism and recreation.
“Ports have long been drivers for regional prosperity and this is no exception,” he said.
“I commend Southern Ports on its unique proposal to leverage an operational need for a community benefit.”
Shelley Payne MLC said this was a great outcome for Esperance, its fishers, recreational boat users and tourism operators.
“It highlights the Cook Government’s commitment to the local community and a recognition of the importance of having publicly accessible boating and fishing facilities in our beautiful coastal town,” she said.
There was no budget allocation for Bandy Creek boat harbour.
