The largest surf park in the southern hemisphere is one step closer to reality. Recently, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) ruled no further assessment on land clearing was needed. 

Planned for a 5.78-hectare Prinsep Road site in Jandakot — adjacent to the Kwinana Freeway and the Cockburn Central train station about 20 minutes south of Perth CBD — the surf park would require the clearing of 5.26 hectares of native vegetation to go ahead. This includes 3.15 hectares of the state-listed ecological community, Banksia Woodlands.  

While there were concerns regarding the endangered black cockatoos that call the woodlands home, the EPA decided the vegetation was already too degraded and showed no evidence of cockatoo breeding, roosting, or foraging. This is just one step in the assessment of the park’s viability. Environmental assessments from relative authorities, including the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, are still to happen. Any of the decisions made by these authorities can still be appealed.

Here’s what we know about the Perth Surf Park so far

Perth’s first dedicated wave park — and did we mention, the largest in the southern hemisphere? — is set to change surfing, swimming, and beach-going in the state. 

As it is, your surfing session can come to an abrupt halt if you run into marine hazards and changing wind conditions. The proposed wave pool will have none of that, creating the perfect wave every time. There are over 25 wave types in its repertoire, from knee-high whitewater for children and beginners to scoot to shore on, all the way up to powerful barrels and steep Cow Bombie-style waves for experienced surfers. 

For the kooks, there’ll be training programs with personalised coaches available. And, for the surf-adverse, out-of-water activities like yoga and meditation retreats, live music, and cultural festivals will keep you busy. 

Other proposal features include on-site accommodation, a beach club, bars and restaurants, and retail stores. Not to be content with being just a leisure centre, co-working offices, function and event spaces, and a health and wellness centre have been included in the plan, too.  

Leading global creator Aventuur will be taking charge of the development after being approved for the $100 million project by the government.

Construction is set to begin this year, should all requirements be met. The park to open to the public in 2025. 

For further details visit aventuur.com.

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Lead image: Aventuur