Summer is Scarborough’s peak season, and this year, it has a new addition. The Surf CAT — a free, high-frequency bus service connecting Stirling Bus Station and the coast — hits the road today, making it easier to get to one of Perth’s favourite beaches.
The Cook Government’s election commitment will be well received by locals and blow-ins alike. Parking is often a nightmare on those busy beach days, and some say it should be an Olympic sport in itself. This bus service aims to shift a good share of beach traffic out of the carparks and onto public transport.
Scarborough MLA Stuart Aubrey commented, “With so many people coming to Scarborough, it of course puts pressure on parking in the area, which is why the Cook Government has been focused on delivering better public transport and pedestrian connectivity.”
“The new Surf CAT service will give our community a free, convenient way to reach the beach, helping to relieve traffic congestion as well as boosting our small businesses and the local economy.”
A new way to get to Scarborough
Running every ten minutes for most of the day, the Surf CAT makes the trip between Stirling Bus Station and Scarborough Beach in about 20 minutes. Its route threads along Cedric Street, Ellen Stirling Boulevard, and Scarborough Beach Road, creating a straightforward link between the station precinct and the shoreline.
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said, “Scarborough is one of Perth’s most well-known and popular beaches and the new Surf CAT will be a game changer for locals and visitors — right in time for summer.”
“The new free service will make a real difference to boosting connectivity and reducing congestion at Scarborough.”
“With more people being able to travel to this iconic beach with ease, the Surf CAT will also support the delivery of more vibrant events and strengthen the local economy.”
The buses themselves are also very easy to spot — they’re bright blue — and include a dedicated space for surfboards, which means surfers can travel without the awkwardness of trying to manoeuvre a board while on the bus.
The bus will operate from early morning through to late evening.
Backed by major transport upgrades
The new route is underpinned by a $17.8 million State Government investment delivered in this year’s budget. The package covers new bus lanes, two bus embayments along West Coast Highway, and upgrades to the West Coast Highway and Scarborough Beach Road intersection designed to ease congestion.
As part of the broader network changes, routes 410 and 412 have been extended to Karrinyup Bus Station, strengthening the north–south connection between Scarborough and Karrinyup.
