Separation Point Marine Precinct
Project: Establish a marine education, training and research facility on the Mid West coast. This project currently has two established elements: the Batavia Coast Marine Centre (BCMC) and the Abrolhos Islands Research Institute (AIRI).
Proponents:
- BCMC - Department of Education and Training and Central West College of TAFE
- AIRI - Department of Fisheries, Mid West Development Commission (MWDC)
Location: Separation Point, Geraldton, Western Australia.
Value:
- BCMC - $11.9M (including $1.3M for a seawater pipeline)
- AIRI - $2M.
Description: The Precinct is a partnership which seeks to develop a world class marine education, training and research precinct in a unique environment. It has four components in total:
- The Batavia Coast Marine Centre (BCMC) will establish a world class, best practice marine education and training facility focussing on post harvest, grow out technologies, and processing for rock lobster, prawns, scallops, abalone, trochos shell and local finfish species
- Abrolhos Islands Research Institute (AIRI) will facilitate research into anthropological/archaeological related issues and coral and marine ecosystems. It will also serve as a research base for the Department of Fisheries.
- The Geraldton Interpretive Centre will highlight the work of the education/ training and research centres, and will raise awareness of the local marine industry and environment.
- Provision for industry research development in conjunction with one or more of the above facilities.
Status: The BCMC and the AIRI were officially opened in July 2006.
A feasibility study into a marine interpretive centre is currently on hold.
MWDC Contact: Chief Executive Officer
Steve Douglas 9921 0701
Last Updated: 8/12/2008