Perth Surf Park Kicks Off Early Construction After Securing Key Investment
After nearly three years of anticipation, early works have officially commenced on the long-awaited $120 million Perth Surf Park project in the city's southern suburbs. The development, which received formal approval back in March 2023, has now moved into its preparatory phase on the Jandakot site, located near Armadale Road and the Kwinana Freeway.
A Major Tourism Attraction for Western Australia
Andrew Ross, Chair and Chief Development Officer of developer Aventuur, has hailed the surf park as a "once-in-a-generation project" and the first major tourism attraction to be delivered in Perth in over 25 years. He emphasised that it represents the single largest private investment in tourism infrastructure currently underway in the state.
"From the outset, our approach has been to deliver an authentic, sustainable surf park for Perth that is 'by the West, for the West,'" Mr Ross stated. "Now, with the support of two reputable WA institutional investors and our dedicated WA-based project team, we're ready to start building."
Investment and Partnership Details
The project had been in a state of limbo until August of last year when the RAC joined forces with the Wyllie family to provide crucial investment funding. While exact financial figures have not been disclosed, this partnership has enabled the surf park to progress from planning to active development.
Rob Slocombe, Group CEO of RAC, highlighted that this investment continues their organisation's longstanding commitment to supporting Western Australian tourism. "RAC has a long and proud history of supporting WA tourism," Mr Slocombe explained. "We're proud to be investing in a soon-to-be iconic West Australian destination which will provide the WA community a unique, world-class experience."
Project Specifications and Timeline
The Perth Surf Park will feature a massive 2.2-hectare surfing lagoon equipped with a fully controlled artificial wave system. This innovative setup will be capable of producing consistent, high-quality waves throughout the entire year, regardless of natural ocean conditions.
Key features of the development include:
- A 62-module Wavegarden Cove, which will be the largest installation of its kind in the world
- Customisable wave technology designed to accommodate surfers of all skill levels
- Overnight accommodation options including rooftop glamping facilities
- A comprehensive wellness centre and fitness studio
- A skate park and pump track for alternative recreation
- Multiple dining and entertainment venues including a beach club, café, restaurant, and bars
- A high-performance surf academy for training and development
The site's strategic location places it less than 400 metres from Cockburn Central train station, ensuring excellent public transport accessibility for visitors from across the metropolitan area and beyond.
Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities
The surf park is projected to deliver substantial economic benefits to Western Australia throughout its operational lifespan. Projections indicate the facility will:
- Attract approximately 1 million visitors annually once fully operational
- Create more than 280 jobs during the construction phase
- Generate around 100 full-time positions once opened to the public
- Contribute over $300 million to the state's economy over the coming years
Construction Schedule and Opening Plans
While initial construction had been planned for late 2025, formal works are now scheduled to begin in the coming months. The project timeline anticipates the first waves being generated in the lagoon by July 2027, with a full public opening expected in late 2027.
This development represents a significant milestone for Perth's tourism sector and recreational infrastructure, promising to establish Western Australia as a premier destination for surf enthusiasts and leisure seekers alike.
