Published 17 April 2026, updated 04 August 2026
A much-loved community facility for over two decades, the Pelican Point Boat Ramp and Fishing Platform is a step closer to renewal, with the detailed engineering design for the upgrade now complete. The completion of the design phase means the project is now construction ready, positioning the City of Bunbury to seek funding and progress this important upgrade for the community and visitors.
The City of Bunbury is planning for the future of the Pelican Point Boat Ramp and Fishing Platform, a valued community facility located on the shores of the Collie River.
The City is progressing the detailed design for a new boat ramp and fishing platform that will improve the capacity and useability of the facility for the Bunbury community and visitors for years to come.
Background
The Pelican Point Boat Ramp and Fishing Platform was built around 2000 and has served the community well for approximately 25 years. However, years of exposure to harsh coastal conditions – including regular inundation during high tides and storm events – have taken their toll on the facility.
Recognising the importance of maintaining safe and accessible boating and fishing infrastructure, the City has been planning for the long-term future of the site through the development of a modern and sustainable replacement.
To support the project, the City engaged specialist design consultants to undertake a comprehensive investigation and design process. The detailed design phase was funded through a grant from the Department of Transport's Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS).
Detailed Design Complete
Following geotechnical investigations and detailed engineering design work, the upgraded design has now been finalised. The proposed upgrade includes:
- A new two-lane boat ramp to improve launching and retrieval capacity
- A floating jetty to enhance vessel access and user convenience
- Renewal of retaining walls and foreshore protection to improve durability and protect the shoreline
- Improved pedestrian access throughout the facility
The design has been developed to improve the capacity, functionality and resilience of the site, ensuring it continues to meet the needs of recreational boaters, fishers and visitors into the future.
What's Next?
With the design now complete, the City will apply for construction funding through the Department of Transport's Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS) in September 2026. Subject to a successful funding outcome, expected to be announced in June 2027, construction of the upgraded facility is planned to commence during the 2027/28 financial year.
Funding
The detailed design phase of the project was funded through the Department of Transport's Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS). The City will submit an application for additional RBFS funding in September 2026 to support construction of the project.
The City remains committed to pursuing external funding opportunities to help deliver this important community infrastructure project.
Current Status
Seasonal Closure | Winter 2026
As the higher winter tides begin each year, the Pelican Point Boat Ramp and Fishing Platform is subject to regular inundation. To ensure community safety, the facility will be partially closed during the winter period.
What does this mean?
- Some of the plywood decking will be removed and the area fenced off for safety
- A small area adjacent to the boat ramp will remain accessible where possible
- Traffic management and safety measures will be in place
The City appreciates the community’s patience and understanding during this time.
Fishing Platform
The fishing platform will be reinspected following winter, with the aim of having it operational again for summer 2026/27.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Pelican Point Boat Ramp and Fishing Platform is approximately 25 years old and has been subject to significant wear and tear from harsh coastal conditions, high tides and storm events over its lifetime. A new, modern facility will better serve the community’s needs into the future.
Yes, the boat ramp will still be available for recreational boating use during the winter months (weather permitting). Access to the fishing platform will be restricted during the winter months due to tidal inundation and the removal of decking for safety reasons. A small area adjacent to the boat ramp may remain accessible where possible. Please observe all signage and safety fencing on site.
The fishing platform will be reinspected following winter, with the aim of having it operational for summer 2026/27.
The City is applying for construction funding through the Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme in September 2026. Subject to funding, construction could commence in late 2027.
The detailed design has been funded through a successful RBFS grant from the State Government. The City will apply for further RBFS funding to support the construction phase and will continue to explore all available funding pathways to deliver this project.
The completed detailed design includes a range of improvements that will enhance the capacity, functionality and long-term resilience of the facility. Key features of the upgrade include:
- A new two-lane boat ramp to improve launching and retrieval capacity
- A floating jetty to enhance vessel access and user convenience
- Renewal of retaining walls and foreshore protection to improve durability and protect the shoreline
- Improved pedestrian access throughout the facility
The upgraded design has been developed following detailed engineering assessments and site investigations to ensure the facility can continue to support recreational boating and fishing at Pelican Point for years to come.
This page will be updated as the project progresses. You can also follow the City of Bunbury’s social media channels for the latest news.
The detailed design phase has been funded through a successful grant from the State Government’s Recreational Boating Facilities Scheme (RBFS). The City thanks the State Government for its support through this funding.