Port Hedland's Spoilbank Marina has officially opened, marking a new era for the Pilbara community and delivering on a key WA Labor election commitment.
The $187.5 million marina provides the Hedland community and visitors with access to a vibrant new space, as well as enhancing safety for recreational boaters.
The Spoilbank Marina includes a four-lane recreational boat ramp, boat pens, fish cleaning facilities, fishing jetty and a recreation and event space with public amenities.
In collaboration with the Kariyarra Aboriginal Corporation, the marina has been dual named Pirra Pirra, meaning 'seashells' in the Kariyarra language to reflect the Kariyarra people's strong connection to the waterfront location.
More than 55 per cent of the project spend was awarded to local and Aboriginal businesses.
Work will soon start on an interactive adventure playground for children and families at the marina, funded by a $4 million Lotterywest grant awarded to the Town of Port Hedland.
Premier Roger Cook and Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel joined hundreds of local residents at a community celebration to open the Spoilbank Marina this evening, featuring live music, local food vendors and family-friendly activities.
The Spoilbank Marina was funded by the Cook Labor Government, Town of Port Hedland and BHP.
Comments attributed to Premier Roger Cook:
"Hedlanders have been asking for a marina at the Spoilbank for decades, and I'm proud that my WA Labor Government has delivered.
"This is more than infrastructure - it will become the heart of Port Hedland, a new community hub on the waterfront for locals and visitors alike.
"Projects like these are vital for making sure our regional communities remain great places to live and work.
"Only our WA Labor Government is delivering the projects regional Western Australians want and need, because we'll always do what's right for WA."
Comments attributed to Ports Minister David Michael:
"The Spoilbank Marina is an example of how regional investments can deliver lasting benefits for local communities and economies.
"This waterfront transformation has supported local business and contractors, creating jobs and opportunities while also providing the Pilbara with a world-class space that fosters family- friendly, vibrant and cohesive communities."
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"The Spoilbank Marina has transformed Port Hedland's foreshore, creating a space that celebrates the Pilbara's rich cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit.
"More than 55 per cent of the project spend was awarded to local and Aboriginal businesses, delivering significant economic benefits while supporting the region's growth and prosperity.
"This is a project the Pilbara can truly be proud of."