Jurien Bay Marina misses out on Budget funding despite petition calling for urgent repairs

More than 230 people have signed a petition for urgent action to improve water quality at the Jurien Bay Marina, but no funding to upgrade the site was allocated in the State Budget. Locals have for years raised concerns about the boat harbour, with many claiming the marina’s poor design has resulted in rotting seaweed and other sediment being trapped and killing fish. Agricultural Region MLC Sandra Carr last week presented Parliament with a petition signed by 234 people who supported repairs to the marina, with a further 169 signatures received in a petition which could not be tabled as it did not comply with guidelines. Ms Carr said locals were now calling on the faults at the marina to be addressed with increased urgency because of the impact the problems were having on tourism. “At certain times throughout the year, the marina fills with seaweed, oxygen levels deplete, and the sea life in the marina dies and ends up washed up on the shore. It creates quite an unpleasant smell in what would otherwise be an absolutely stunning, beautiful and safe little alcove in which the community can gather and swim.” she said. “The marina provides great access for children and families and great disability access, but unfortunately there are some issues with it.” She said the State Government had been negotiating with the Federal Government to co-fund the repairs, but this has not been successful. “Unfortunately, $13.5 million is required, and the Federal Government will not come to the party to assist in the development and repair of that marina.” Ms Carr suggested Member for Moore Shane Love “harness his relationship with Nationals Leader Barnaby Joyce” to encourage investment in Jurien Bay. But Mr Love said his hands were tied unless the State prepared a business case for him to present to the Federal Government. He said the marina upgrades should have received funding in the State’s 2022-23 Budget given WA’s $5.7 billion surplus. “People don’t take in how big that number is, but that is 5700 pretty good division one wins,” he said. It is just a really disappointing thing for the Jurien Bay community.”