Whale watching deck proposed for Dunsborough

A Dunsborough Coast and Landcare Group proposal to construct a whale watching deck at Point Piquet has received in-principle support from the Meelup Regional Park Committee.

The proposal will see a low platform constructed on a timber and marine grade stainless steel base set into the granite rock and a boardwalk from the carpark to provide access.

DCALC president Ron Glencross told the Times this was the second time the idea had been put forward, and would allow people to safely watch the migrating whales from an ideal vantage point.

It would also allow elderly or disabled people access.

“Point Piquet allows a 200-degree view of the bay and the deep waters allow the whales to come in close,” Mr Glencross said.

“We’ve realised this area is becoming more and more popular with visitors and is becoming a public amenity.”

He emphasised the deck would not impact on the ability of people to access other areas in the location.

The construction of the deck is expected to cost around $50,000, which Mr Glencross said could be raised through donations from the public.

A report considered by the Meelup Regional Park Committee last month said the proposal would have minimal impact on the amenity of the coastline due to its fairly unobstructed nature and setting into an existing depression.

The Committee unanimously voted in favour of providing inprinciple support to the proposal.

It recommended the design of the decking fits into the existing granite rocks to create an organic shape that fits into the landscape.

Dunsborough Coast and Landcare Group president at the site of a proposed whale watching platform.