What You Can Expect From The Revamped Dolphin Discovery Centre

It was May 2017 when construction began to bring new life to Bunbury's Dolphin Discovery Centre (DDC).

Fast forward nearly 18 months and the project is taking some serious shape; paving the way for a tourism boost once doors swing open later this year.

For years it has been one of Bunbury's local treasures, home to vital marine research programs, education opportunities and attracting hundreds of volunteers.

Local treasure: The Centre is vital to marine research programs. Photo credit: Stock image

The mega revamp to the DDC is the next big step in the Transforming Bunbury's Waterfront Project - a Government plan to drive visitors and locals back to the area.

Once complete, Member for Bunbury, Don Punch says the centre will become a world class tourist attraction.

"We often talk of the tourism role played by the DDC but it is really important we don’t forget just how valuable this facility is to our local community as well."

- Don Punch MLA, Member for Bunbury

The site will feature modern exhibits, a new café, a multi-use space and souvenir shop and allow easy access for visitors to easily walk between the central business district, Koombana Foreshore and Dolphin Discovery Centre.

Minister for Regional Development Allanah MacTiernan was given a tour of the site this month and presented over $600,000 funding from Lotterywest to support the expansion and allow the best possible marine equipment to be bought for the facility. 

Minister MacTiernan and Don Punch MLA touring the redevelopment works at the Dolphin Discovery Centre. Photo credit: Supplied by Don Punch MLA, Member for Bunbury 

The cash injection from the State Government will fund a viewing platform to allow everyone access to the dolphin experience and provide beach access for people with a disability.

It will also be used for innovative technology upgrades to improve opportunities for local volunteers.

"The project is going gangbusters"

- Minister for Regional Development Hon. Alannah MacTiernan MLC

"I know the Minister was impressed with the works going on at the Centre and with the number of local jobs being created."

- Don Punch MLA, Member for Bunbury

It all comes off the back of the city recieving many new assets along Koombana Bay in recent months including a playground, additional parking, a kiosk and a beach auditorium. 

Mr Punch is excited to drive these waterfront projects and tourism in Bunbury into the future.

Artist impression of Dolphin Discovery Centre. Photo credit: Image supplied to Bunbury Mail.

The Dolphin Discovery Centre is currently closed but the Dolphin Eco Cruises and Interactive Zone is open for business. 

Doors will reopen to the centre in December this year. 

Keep an eye on the exciting project on the Don Punch Facebook page here.

“Authorised by Don Punch for the Australian Labour Party, 4B Spencer Street Bunbury”