Update - September 2011

The State Government’s injection of $3.6million, with additional funding of $400,000 from the City of Busselton, signals the commencement of work on the $4 million Dunsborough Foreshore enhancement project.

One of the key objectives of this project is alleviating the sense of over-crowding in and around the town, particularly during peak tourist seasons. The aim is to create a sense of openness by utilising existing recreational space more efficiently; providing additional amenities and parking; and creating routes for cyclists and pedestrians which link the town centre and foreshore.  However, in keeping with community feedback, this will be done in a way that does not compromise Dunsborough’s unique South West character.

In June the sod turning ceremony marked the commencement of the Dunsborough Foreshore Project when Local Minister Troy Buswell, MLA and Deputy Shire President, Tom Tuffin, turned the soil.  They were joined by members of the Dunsborough Foreshore Reference Group and Shire Officers who are involved in this major project, to mark this milestone.

New-look Seymour Park 

Close to $500,000 will be directed to up-grading the popular Seymour Park. The park’s grassy outlook will be retained but the area will be modified to accommodate a sloping circular area suitable for informal performances and picnics - all with a view to the Bay.  An informal community meeting place will be created in Seymour Park. This feature will take the shape of low-walled, semi-circular seat set in paving.  

While the change in the park’s contours will be subtle, extensive drainage work was required to be installed at a cost of approximately $350,000 and work commenced in July 2011.

Storm water drainage has now been installed from the Lorna Street catchment points to the Dugulup Brook outfall. Other services and infrastructure are also being buried underground as well.

The remaining sub-surface infrastructure work in Seymour Park is now underway to facilitate the construction of street lighting, a small toilet block, upgraded reticulation for the water wise gardens, integrated paved areas and a community meeting space.

A New Playground

A fantastic new children’s playground will be constructed in the southern area of Seymour Park. Just over $600,000 will go towards the creation of a new playground which will cater to children of all ages. A play area suited to younger children will be created inside a specially corralled quarter. Outside this quarter older children will be able to enjoy more adventurous play equipment such as bird nets, perches, spider nets, platforms, climbing frames and a raised slide.  The playground is scheduled for completion by the end of 2011.

Environmentally Friendly

An environmentally designed foreshore garden will showcase local plant species specifically selected for coastal conditions.  A ‘waterwise’ demonstration garden funded by the Water Corporation will be incorporated into this area. This special garden uses native plants tolerant to low water. It also acts as a catchment for storm water, filtering nutrients and harmful chemicals before it enters Geographe Bay.