Could this be Bunbury's new jetty?

Images of the Jurien Bay jetty provide a snapshot of what could be built for the Bunbury community if funding for a replacement of the Bunbury Timber Jetty is secured.

Picture by Shire of Dandaragan: The $2.24 million jetty has been hailed a huge success by the Shire of Dandaragan.

The Wheatbelt shire of Dandaragan constructed the $2.24 million recreational structure after two fishing jetties were damaged by a storm and had to be demolished.

Dandaragan shire chief executive Tony Nottle told the South Western Times the 162m jetty, which was opened about a year ago, had become a focal point for the community.

‘‘A place to walk on water, to view infinity from the end of the jetty, to better understand the marine environment, to relax, to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the turquoise water of the bay,’’ he said.

‘‘It has enhanced a whole range of activities in this area including squid and short line fishing, swimming, kayaking, marine sports, diving, meditation, fireworks, hang-out space for young people, walking and cycling trail, Australia Day breakfast, wildlife viewing and socialising in a well-designed and wellmanaged public space.’’

Bunbury Mayor David Smith said the Bunbury City Council had not yet committed to a replacement jetty, but would be vying for State and Federal government money to fund a new jetty.

Mr Smith said the council was looking at a similar design to Jurien Bay, which would replace the doomed 148-year-old Bunbury Timber Jetty, but it would be about a third longer.

Mr Smith said the proposed design included a section which would recreate the original 27m-wide jetty, built from salvaged timbers from the old jetty and would stretch 11m out from the abutment.

It is hoped the new structure would satisfy a requirement from the Heritage Council of WA to recognise the jetty’s historic value.

Mr Smith said the timber section would help give people ‘‘a feel of what the jetty was’’ in its heyday.

From the timber recreation, a steel and concrete jetty would extend a further 220m.

The project is expected to cost more than $3.5 million.

The Mayor, a long-time supporter of the jetty, said he knew it would be an uphill battle toconvince all councillors a new jetty would be the best way to spend the council’s money.