Construction is now underway to establish a protected swimming area at Fremantle's popular Bathers Beach, delivering a long-awaited safety measure for the community.
A Bespoke Barrier for Beachgoers
The 340-metre long barrier is being positioned approximately 125 metres offshore, stretching between the existing breakwaters. This configuration will create a substantial enclosed area of about 60,000 square metres dedicated for safe swimming and snorkelling in the heart of the port city. The design mirrors successful enclosures already operating in Dunsborough, Busselton, and Ceduna in South Australia.
To minimise disruption to the beachfront, all components—including anchor points, mesh panels, and floating buoys—are being deployed directly from vessels. The installation process is expected to take two to three weeks, with completion targeted for the end of December 2025. Following necessary safety checks, the enclosure will open for public use. It will remain in place until April, after which it will be stored for the off-season.
Addressing Community Safety Concerns
The push for a safe swimming zone in Fremantle gained urgent momentum following two tragic shark attacks in recent years. In 2023, teenager Stella Berry was fatally mauled in the Swan River at North Fremantle. This incident came after the 2021 attack that claimed the life of Paul Millachip at Port Beach.
Bathers Beach was ultimately selected as the most suitable location, despite some concerns that its new appeal might attract large crowds and exacerbate existing parking pressures in the area.
Navigating Heritage and Approval Hurdles
The project, originally slated for the previous summer, faced significant delays due to a complex approval process. Multiple authorities, including the Department of Transport, Fremantle Ports, the Heritage Council of WA, and the Minister for Heritage, needed to grant permission. A key consideration was the heritage-listed remnants of the Long Jetty, which runs adjacent to the enclosure site.
An underwater heritage assessment conducted in September 2025 necessitated some design modifications. Final approvals from relevant State Government departments were required before work could commence.
The barrier itself is constructed from a semi-rigid, braided mesh with an internal stainless steel structure. This specific design is intended to prevent the entanglement or harm of marine life, distinguishing it from traditional shark nets.
Funding and State-Wide Strategy
The enclosure was designed by O’Connor-based company Safer Swimming Australia and is being installed by Henderson firm Franmarine Underwater Services. The total contract value with Franmarine for a five-year period is $1.48 million, with the City of Fremantle covering ongoing maintenance costs.
The State Government has contributed $500,000 towards the project as part of its comprehensive shark hazard mitigation strategy. This initiative has seen state funding allocated for beach enclosures at numerous locations including Bicton Baths, Cottesloe Beach, Quinns Beach, Sorrento, Busselton, Old Dunsborough, Middleton Beach in Albany, and Esperance.
Fisheries Minister Jackie Jarvis highlighted the government's commitment, stating, "The Cook Government is continuing to work closely with local governments on a range of shark hazard mitigation strategies." She confirmed this is the ninth beach enclosure funded by the state.
Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk emphasised the community benefit, noting the enclosure will provide confidence for locals and tourists alike. "Unlike nets, it will not trap or harm marine life," she said.
Authorities continue to encourage swimmers to use the SharkSmart WA app for the latest safety information before entering the water.
