Perth Could Be Getting the Southern Hemisphere’s Largest Artificial Wave Park

Broadsheet | 14 September, 2021

The $80 million proposal includes a surfing lagoon (with over 25 different kinds of waves), a boutique surf hotel, a health and wellness centre, a beach club, restaurants and more – just 20 minutes’ drive from the CBD.

Big news for anyone following the race to develop Western Australia’s first surfable wave pool. The state government has chosen global wave park developer Aventuur to deliver a world-class park to Perth’s southern suburbs.

Aventuur’s $80 million proposal – which was selected over one by Urbnsurf, the company that’s built surf parks in Melbourne and Sydney – would be the largest in the Southern Hemisphere, and a 20-minute drive from Perth’s CBD.

If approved, Cockburn Wave Park will sit on a 5.7-hectare site at Prinsep Road in Jandakot, adjacent to the Kwinana Freeway and the Cockburn Central train station.

The plans include a surfing lagoon with Wavegarden Cove technology, plus a boutique surf hotel, a health and wellness centre, co-working offices, function and event spaces, a performance academy, a beach club and restaurants.

The artificial wave park would provide a safe, controlled environment that’s open day and night, year-round. More than 25 different waves can be created within the park’s surfing lagoon, from knee-high white water for children and beginners, through to powerful barrels and steep Point Break-style waves for experienced surfers.

The proposal will now progress to the next stage of negotiations, with any future development subject to relevant planning and building approvals. If given the green light, Aventuur plans to commence construction in late 2022 and open to the public in 2024.

“I am pleased to see this exciting project – that sets out to showcase Western Australia’s vibrant surfing culture – continues to move forward,” Tony Buti, minister for sport and recreation, said in a statement.

“The quality of both submissions was high, reflecting the level of enthusiasm for a venture of this kind in WA. The preferred proponent Aventuur has committed to engaging with local business and interest groups to create a truly Western Australian surfing experience.”