New Ocean Reef rescue facilities to boost emergency response

17 June 2024

Works to commence on Marine Rescue Whitfords, Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club and Joondalup City RSL facilities as part of major redevelopment of Ocean Reef Marina
New facilities will improve sea rescue capabilities for Perth’s northern corridor
Byte Construct announced as preferred proponent for construction
Ocean Reef Marina development made possible by $272.3 million Cook Government investment

The next phase of the transformative Ocean Reef Marina development is about to commence, with construction starting on the new headquarters for Marine Rescue Whitfords and facilities for the Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club and Joondalup City RSL.

Western Australian developer Byte Construct has today been named as the preferred contractor for the works, which are set to get underway in the coming weeks.

Marine Rescue Whitfords will be housed in a new two-storey building with space for training, administration and equipment maintenance.

The new facility will feature state-of-the-art amenities to support the crucial operations of Western Australia’s dedicated volunteer rescue service, representing a significant step forward in the Cook Government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all who enjoy our coastal waters.

For the first time, three marine rescue vessels will be permanently moored at the marina on ready-access jetties for fast deployment, significantly improving safety for recreational boaters, fishers and other water users in Perth’s north.

State-of-the-art radio communications, phone and online applications will allow every vessel to log trips from the coast to all local locations, improving safety and communications for all.

The $6.48 million building has been specifically designed to accommodate Marine Rescue Whitfords along with the Department of Transport’s Marine Manager’s Office and services for future marina pen holders. It is an excellent example of cross-collaboration, with the Department of Transport and Marine Rescue Whitfords to work closely together to ensure the safety of the local recreational boating community.

The neighbouring Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club and Joondalup City RSL will include upgraded angling, dive and sailing facilities as well as dining and bar options that will benefit current and future members, as well as the broader community.

It will also offer improved meeting rooms for community groups and other local clubs to use.

The City of Joondalup has put $3 million towards construction of the Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club, and the club itself has contributed $1.75 million.

Once completed, the redeveloped Ocean Reef Marina will be a premier waterfront precinct for Perth’s northern suburbs and a key tourism destination for WA.

Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:

“The redeveloped Ocean Reef Marina will boast Perth’s first coastal pool, a family beach within the protection of the marina, waterfront cafes and restaurants, parkland with a scooter park, upgraded facilities for local clubs and services, boat pens and ramps, and trailer parking.

“Commencement of works on the new headquarters for Marine Rescue Whitfords and new Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club and Joondalup City RSL is a major milestone for the Ocean Reef Marina project, which has been made possible by my Government’s substantial $272.3 million investment.

“We are investing in this generational development to provide another landmark tourism destination for WA, as we work to further diversify the State’s economy.

“It will also deliver more housing options, open spaces, improved services and unparalleled public amenities for the local community.”

Comments attributed to Lands Minister John Carey:

“The Marine Rescue Whitfords facility will feature state-of-the-art amenities, meticulously designed to support the crucial operations of our dedicated volunteer rescue service.

“With dedicated pens ensuring a permanent rescue fleet, we are bolstering our ability to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies along our coastline.

“The new state-of-the-art clubhouse for the Ocean Reef Sea Sports Club and Joondalup City RSL will become an environmentally sustainable landmark within the newly developed Ocean Reef Marina.

“It will offer upgraded dining and bar options, as well as enhanced angling, dive, and sailing facilities and facilities for community groups.”

Comments attributed to Emergency Services Minister Stephen Dawson:

“Ensuring our emergency services volunteers have modern facilities and equipment to perform their life saving role is a priority for the Cook Government.

“For the first time, three marine rescue vessels will be permanently located at the marina, ensuring faster deployment and enhanced safety outcomes for recreational boaters, fishers and other water users in the area.

“This is one of the biggest and busiest volunteer marine rescue groups in the State with around 250 call outs.

“This new Marine Rescue Whitfords facility is a win-win for all concerned with the delivery of state-of-the-art amenities to support our volunteers and the local community.”

Comments attributed to Joondalup MLA Emily Hamilton:

“Our Joondalup community is excited to see the land-based works taking place and are looking forward to the new facilities that will provide a new home for Marine Rescue Whitfords, the Ocean Reef Sea Sport Club and the Joondalup City RSL.

“As Perth’s second CBD, Joondalup is the city centre servicing our northern corridor and our new landmark Ocean Reef Marina will be a world-class tourism and hospitality destination that will boost our local economy.”