One Mile Jetty Repair/Replacement
Project Overview
The One Mile Jetty Repair/Replacement project is a multi-stage project: stage one, deconstruction, is being led by the Department of Transport; stage two, reconstruction to the value of $4.5 million, is being led by the Gascoyne Development Commission; and future stages to develop the Jetty and/or Heritage Precinct once funding is identified.
One Mile Jetty, one week before Cyclone Seroja
Project background
Constructed from 1897, the One Mile Jetty has been integral to the cultural identity of Carnarvon and played a significant role in the economic development of the Gascoyne region. The State Heritage Register’s listing of the One Mile Jetty recognises its significant historical value.
The Jetty is located on the southern side of the entrance to the Gascoyne River in Carnarvon at the site of the 1890’s Port of Carnarvon. Carnarvon was one of the first recorded ports in the world to load livestock on board ships for transport to markets. The Jetty was also the departure point for Aboriginal people proceeding to the Lock Hospitals of Dorre and Bernier Islands.
The current Jetty custodians are the Carnarvon Heritage Group, a not-for-profit organisation.
Following several fires and adverse weather events, the Gascoyne Development Commission, on behalf of Heritage Group, commissioned a structural assessment report in 2017 which deemed the Jetty unsafe and it was consequently closed to the public. Since its closure, a broad community campaign has been led by Heritage Group to identify a solution to its usability and sustainability.
Visitors to Carnarvon can explore the fascinating history of the iconic Jetty at the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct’s One Mile Jetty Interpretive Centre which was officially opened by Minister for Regional Development, Alannah MacTiernan on 17 April, 2019.
The further development and preservation of the Jetty and the Heritage Precinct will contribute to the resilience and diversity of WA’s tourism industry and actively contribute to a broader regional economic base for the Gascoyne.
The Commission established a Community Reference Group with members from Carnarvon Heritage Group, the Shire of Carnarvon, Department of Transport, Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage and Traditional Owners to investigate options for the future of the Jetty and the surrounding Heritage Precinct.
In 2020, the Commission engaged consultants Acil Allen to develop options for repairs and/or replacement of various lengths of the Jetty. Twenty two high-level conceptual options were identified for the repair of the Jetty. The State Government subsequently committed $4.5 million to kick start the Jetty repairs.
On Sunday 11 April 2021, Tropical Cyclone Seroja severely damaged large parts of the Jetty and destroyed around 360m. It is estimated that 200-300 tonnes of timbers were carried south by prevailing currents causing a marine hazard.
The level of damage has necessitated the development of a staged approach to the preservation of the Jetty.
Stage One
Following an engineering report that recommended removing all but the first 400 metres of the Jetty, the Department of Transport led the deconstruction and salvaging of timbers from the intertidal section onwards (Piers 117-245). These deconstruction works were completed late 2021.
Salvaged timbers from the Jetty will now be individually assessed for heritage value, quality, and structural integrity. High to low-grade timbers may have the potential for reuse in the One Mile Jetty Repair/Replacement, Stage 2 or other community projects.
Department of Transport One Mile Jetty partial deconstruction map.
Stage Two
Stage two of the Project is underway with community consultation progressing. The State Solicitor’s Office has also been engaged to provide legal advice.
The Commission continue to work with key stakeholders through a project steering group which includes the Department of Transport, Department for Planning Lands and Heritage, Carnarvon Heritage Group, Shire of Carnarvon and Traditional Owners. A community forum was held in February 2022, where the community was updated on each stage of the Project.
For more information, see publications below.
Future Stages
A business case for a total rebuild of the One Mile Jetty has not yet proven a positive case for investment.
The Commission continues to work with stakeholders to investigate funding opportunities and to take steps to ensure an investment decision including activation of the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct.
One Mile Jetty Stage 3 Business Case
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Will the Jetty be re-piled/built?
The Jetty will be partially rebuilt using modern piling techniques. With new technology and modern design techniques, the new Jetty will require fewer piles. The Commission currently have funding to repair and replace a limited portion of the original Jetty.
Q. Which company was contracted to deconstruct the Jetty?
The Department of Transport was the responsible agency for the deconstruction of the Jetty, seaward past the beach. TAMS Australia was the main contractor engaged to complete the works.
Q. Will local Gascoyne contractors be employed for Stage 2 of the project?
It is Commission’s preference to use local contractors where possible. The complex nature of the project and specialist skills required may make it difficult to engage local contractors directly. The Commission's Project Manager is working closely with the Gascoyne Local Content Advisor to ensure local contractors are engaged wherever possible.
Q. How long will Stage 2 of the project take to complete?
Planning and preparatory work has begun and is expected to be completed late 2022. Construction for stage 2 works is expected to start shortly following this
and will take about 12 months to complete. New geo tech information for the site, adverse weather, and the impacts of COVID-19 may prolong these timeframes.
Documents
One Mile Jetty Stage 3 Business Case
Stage one – Deconstruction and community consultation re salvaged timber reuse
Stage two – $4.5M state government commitment
Carnarvon One Mile Jetty – Deconstruction Methodology
Damage Assessment Report post Cyclone Seroja
Preliminary Benefit Cost Assessment of the One Mile Jetty Redevelopment