Among the most impressive man-made reefs in Australia, Busselton Jetty is a true wonder. Over 300 marine species and an exquisite variety of marine invertebrates have flourished on the submerged timber and steel piles of the Jetty since its completion in 1865. Nature, in all her glory, shaped the reef, while mankind constructed the jetty.
Busselton Jetty's environmental team is committed to long-term sustainability in managing the jetty's structure, which has transformed into an artificial reef. Their latest addition—13 Underwater Sculptures—takes it to the next level. Carefully designed to complement existing artificial reefs, each sculpture offers a new place for aquatic species to call home.
The goal of the artificial reefs project at the Busselton Jetty Initiative is to increase the number of hard seafloor habitats, which will have a positive impact on the environment. The preponderance of seagrass meadows on the seafloor makes these ecosystems especially rare in Geographe Bay.
You can't see the underwater sculptures from the underwater observatory, so keep that in mind. One unique activity that has developed over the last 60 years is the Underwater Observatory Tour, which aims to highlight the thriving marine ecosystem that lies beneath the Jetty.
Sophie Teede, the Busselton Jetty Marine Scientist and Environmental Manager, emphasises that these sculptures are more than just creative interpretations. The undersea constructions are expected to act as additional habitats for local marine species, providing critical refuges for different phases of marine vertebrates and invertebrates.
Sophie Teede explains that "we expect to see an increase in fish life around the Jetty as the benthic community develops and colonises the sculpture objects, which have been strategically designed with holes, crypts, and refuges to accommodate a broad diversity and abundance of organisms."
The colonisation process is predicted to be gradual, with first growth observable as early as three months after installation. This one-of-a-kind project combines conservation and creativity, with submerged sculptures actively contributing to the health of the marine ecosystem. The Artificial Reef Sculpture Trail is one of the world's few accessible underwater paths, allowing people to explore by just walking down the jetty.
Busselton Jetty Inc. dedicates 25 percent of ticket sales to continuing preservation initiatives to safeguard the 158-year-old jetty's continuous operation. This commitment demonstrates the organisation's commitment to sustainability, ensuring that this wonderful edifice continues to bring joy to future generations. Visitors who walk through the new Artificial Reef Sculpture Trail not only see the intersection of art and science but also help to preserve a historic marine monument.
a. 17 Foreshore Parade, Busselton WA 6280, Australia
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