Jurien Bay marina dredging not enough to fix fish kills and rotting seaweed damaging vessels, locals say

Despite dredging taking place, passionate residents continue the fight for Jurien Bay’s marina, which they claim is a trap for rotting seaweed, resulting in fish kills and damage to vessels. The Shire of Dandaragan, Country Women’s Association of WA, vessel owners and residents have urged the State Government to repair the Jurien Bay marina, referring to the design as “incorrect”. Jurien Bay resident Penelope Normington, who has brought attention to the town’s issues, said the Department of Transport was refusing to repair the marina, despite vessels in the bay suffering from electrolysis damage, and insisted on dredging. She said a local yacht had been damaged by severe electrolysis, which had never happened before, although it had been lifted, repainted and repaired on an annual basis for more than nine years at the marina. “The hull was covered in a jelly, slimy coating, evidence of the presence of H2S gas (hydrogen sulfide) and continuing electrolysis. Approximately 300 holes were counted on the hull and keel and the propeller also was compromised,” she said. “The dredge is now operating in the marina, and we as a community find this so frustrating as it is a very expensive process with no result — the fish kill will still happen.” Ms Normington said a fish kill occurred due to lack of oxygen as the seaweed remained trapped in the marina, rotting and sinking to the bottom and creating H2S gas. “The beach at the marina was closed by the Health Department to any swimming activities and remains closed. Because of H2S gas being present in the marina, Jurien Bay Marine Rescue volunteers have suffered ill health and are purchasing H2S monitors,” she said. Department of Transport maritime executive director Steve Jenkins said the department routinely undertook hydrographic surveys at the facility to monitor the level of sand and seaweed build-up within the entrance channel. “Dredging is currently being undertaken at the facility to remove the seaweed and deepen navigation channels, to assist navigation, improve water quality and restore natural tidal flushing,” he said. “The design work for remedial modifications to the northern breakwater to address recurring water quality issues in the harbour has been undertaken and funding for additional works will be considered as part of regular budget processes.” Passionate locals now have a group called Fix Jurien Marina Organisation and are working in alliance with the Western Australian Recreational Family Fishing Alliance.