The Nationals WA have condemned the Cook Labor Government for failing to deliver its promised $1.4 million
artificial reef project off Carnarvon.
The Fisheries Minister revealed in Parliament today that work is yet to begin on building the artificial reef with
the state government failing to award a tender for the project five months after it was announced.
Leader of The Nationals WA and Member for Moore Shane Love MLA said the Labor Government was failing
to deliver for regional communities.
“In May, the Cook Labor government promised a new artificial reef would be installed by the end of the year to
improve recreational fishing opportunities for both locals and the thousands of visitor who enjoy the region
each year,” Mr Love said.
“This much-anticipated project has failed to eventuate, with Labor’s low-ball funding failing to attract a single
tender to deliver enhanced fishing and diving opportunities for locals and visitors to the Gascoyne.
“It will now be impossible for Labor to deliver on this promise to Carnarvon in this term of Government – a
massive let down for local fishers, visitors, and tourism providers.”
Mr Love said the Carnarvon community had seen recreational fishing opportunities dwindle following the
closure of the town’s iconic One Mile Jetty in 2017.
“Despite almost eight years in power, Labor has delivered very little progress on the restoration of the One Mile
Jetty, despite extensive community support.
“Following the demolition of the Esperance Tanker Jetty, One Mile Jetty is now just one of two heritage timber
jetties left in WA and getting on with its reconstruction is vital to ensure this community asset can once again
be enjoyed by visitors and locals.”
Upper House candidate Julie Freeman said the Carnarvon community was feeling neglected by the Cook
Labor Government.
“The recreational fishing sector was looking forward to this promised artificial reef, but like so many promises
from this government, the local community is left wondering when it will materialise,” Mrs Freeman said.
“The One Mile Jetty restoration remains incomplete; Carnarvon Hospital is without maternity services years
after Labor cut services, and other significant issues like housing and youth crime continue to be ignored by
the Cook Labor Government to the detriment of the local community.
“Carnarvon deserves better.”
