4.4 Transformative project highlights

Noted as a leading priority by all South West councils, Busselton Margaret River Airport requires a fit-for-purpose terminal building that reflects the region’s quality tourism brand and serves as an appropriate, high level introduction/farewell as expected from visitors to the Capes region.

With airside infrastructure in place, BMRA now accommodates direct RPT (Regular Passenger Transport) Jetstar flights to Melbourne and Sydney, along with 36 closed charter flights for the resources sector, the airport serviced about 155,000 passengers in 2023-24. There is an identified and urgent need to upgrade the terminal to a scale that allows all passengers to disembark smoothly and departing passengers to be processed through baggage and security for outbound flights. Facilities will be required to provide capacity for a fast turnaround and create opportunities for private sector engagement in operations, such as car rentals, food/drinks and retail.

Along with the City of Busselton, SWDC is leading a working group and expert study exploring multiple options for a terminal proposal that would address current capacity issues. It is expected that a path forward will be determined in 2024-25.

Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, BMRA’s future will include international capability and the prospect of delivering underbelly freight into Asian markets.

As well as being just 7km from Busselton CBD, the airport is also blessed with greenfield site opportunities.

The 1.8km Busselton Jetty is the South West’s most visited tourist attraction and features one of just six underwater observatories internationally.

The jetty is proposing to construct and operate a new, purpose-built Marine Discovery Centre on Busselton foreshore. Proposals are for a three-storey attraction with different marine-based experiences to explore on each level. The concept is a land-based alternative to ‘waterside’ proposals and is being tested with a pilot project opened at Railway House in mid 2024.

Australia has been awarded the 2026 UCI World Gravel Championships which will be held in Nannup and put the global spotlight on the South West.

The Western Australian event will not only be the first UCI World Championships outside Europe, but will also bring world-class cycling to the South West. This constitutes an exceptional opportunity for Nannup and the whole region to establish its credentials as an international destination.

Accommodation services will be spread across the region, although investment will be required in communications, water/sewerage infrastructure and power.

The South West is Western Australia’s premier trails destination, delivering options from high quality mountain bike projects to a bridle trail and world class walks that include the renowned 1,000km Bibbulmun Track, 1,072km Munda Biddi Trail and breathtaking Cape to Cape Track.

Investment is supporting the extension of the walking/cycling Wadandi Track to 110km. Named after the traditional custodians of the land, the Wadandi Track traverses bushland, farms, vineyards and the magnificent Leeuwin-Naturaliste area.

In contrast, Manjimup is developing Australia’s first trailbike hub which will provide unique access to State Forests. The hub is expected to attract more than 33,600 visitors yearly and builds on Manjimup’s reputation as a dirt bike racing destination.