Construction to begin on $13 million Southern Ocean artificial surf reef at Middleton Beach

Construction on the $13 million Southern Ocean artificial surf reef at Middleton Beach is expected to start this month after nearly two decades of community push.

Works are expected to begin on the reef on Friday and expected to be completed within six weeks.

Signage will be placed around the beach to mark the construction site with the City of Albany urging the community and water users to stay out of the construction area.

Heron Construction’s Machiavelli backhoe dredge, which arrived in Albany in December, will construct the reef while rocks will be transported to the reef site by split hopper barges.

Albany Boardriders Peter Bolt said the surf community will benefit from the reef, describing it as a game changer.

“The reef will provide a much-needed boost for Albany’s surfing scene, creating a more consistent wave and allowing us to host high-quality surfing events,” he said.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity to inspire and develop the next generation of surfers, giving them a more accessible place to train and compete right here in Albany.”

The project involves the creation of a layered granite rock structure that will improve seabed conditions and surfing waves for about 40 per cent of the year.

Albany mayor Greg Stocks said the reef was an investment in the city’s community and would act as a tourism draw.

“Our aim is not only to deliver a regular wave at one of the best beaches in WA but to drive benefits in tourism, economic development, and keep our youth in Albany for longer,” he said.

“The Southern Ocean Surf Reef will enhance Albany’s reputation as an adventure and recreation destination, attract more visitors during the winter season, and contribute to the ongoing revitalisation of the Binalup/Middleton Beach precinct.”

The tender for the construction was awarded to Heron Construction at a council meeting last July.