Published on Wednesday, 25 March 2020 at 11:39:00 AM
It is with much regret that the City of Busselton and Busselton Jetty Inc. jointly announce the temporary halt of tourist operations along the iconic Busselton Jetty. The Underwater Observatory, Interpretive Centre and Train Rides have been temporarily closed in an effort to kerb the spread of the Coronavirus.
The iconic Busselton Jetty will remain open for individual recreational use for the time being although this may need to be reviewed in the coming days or weeks. People using the jetty while it remains open must maintain strict social distancing regulations. This requires a 1.5 metre distance to be maintained between people at all times.
Chair of Busselton Jetty Inc. Barry House said that while the decision was regrettable, it was the only responsible course of action. “With further restrictions announced by the Federal Government last night, this closure was mandated. Stopping the spread of this disease is entirely dependent on social distancing restrictions being strictly adhered to.
This closure is in the best interests of our staff, volunteers and the broader community. Busselton Jetty Inc. will be looking at creative ways to stay connected with the community during this time and we invite people to tune into new virtual reality and streaming video and marine educational tours of the Jetty. These will be available on the Busselton Jetty website next week.”
City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley said that Busselton Jetty is a beacon for visitors and the decision to close operations was made yesterday prior to the Federal Government’s announcement of further operating restrictions.
“Council, along with the Busselton Jetty Inc. Board, felt very strongly that continuing to offer tourist services on the jetty not only put staff and volunteers at risk, but sent the wrong message to those people considering coming to the South West for the holidays. We do not want people visiting the South West at this time and keeping this major tourist attraction open, if it had even been allowable, was not considered responsible.”
The Objectives outlined in this media release are aligned to Key Goal Area 1 in the City of Busselton’s Strategic Community Plan (Review 2019): Our community is welcoming, friendly and healthy.
Media enquiries can be directed to the City’s Public Relations Coordinator, Meredith Dixon on 97810446 or meredith.dixon@busselton.wa.gov.au
Back to All News