The reef units will host a range of habitats for marine life.
In an exciting and forward-thinking first in the region, the City of Greater Geelong has partnered with a world-leading artificial reef designer to create an eco-friendly marine attraction at Clifton Springs.
Due to transform the coast in the coming months, The Sculptural Wave Attenuator will be made up of a series of dynamic modular reef units, which will create an undulating landscape and host a range of habitats for marine life, ultimately assisting in the restoration of marine reef communities in Port Phillip Bay.
The striking array of modular reef units will also work to reduce wave energy and curb erosion along The Dell’s local coastline.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher said Melbourne-based industrial designer and manufacturer Alex Goad, from Reef Design Lab, had been engaged to design and fabricate the reef units.
“We are excited to be working with a designer of the calibre of Alex, whose ground-breaking work has attracted international acclaim for its environmental and artistic outcomes,” Mayor Asher said.
“The Sculptural Wave Attenuator will enhance the area’s sensitive environment and provide an educational and eco-tourism drawcard that will appeal to a wide range of visitors.”
The project aims to install an initial six reef units off The Dell beach this autumn which will be colonised by a range of native species, such as mussels, seaweed and invertebrates. The sculptural reef would be safely enjoyed at both high and low tides, offering shallow swimming or walk-through opportunities for residents, students and tourists.
The initial stage of the project is being delivered with a budget of $30,000. If successful, it will be followed by subsequent stages with a total budget of about $200,000.
The project follows a shift in focus from the original Sunken Gallery concept to a clever and creative initiative that provides environmental and educational benefits.
“This state-of-the-art project further enhances the City’s reef restoration efforts, following the historical loss of a large amount of shellfish reefs from Port Phillip Bay,” Mayor Asher said.
“It will highlight how artistic sculpture and technology can combine with ecology to improve biodiversity and protect our coastlines and marine communities.”
The project also addresses public interest in delivering a sensitive development that protects and enhances The Dell’s natural assets, complementing The Dell Historic Mineral Springs Boardwalk, which will provide safe pedestrian access around to the next beach in most conditions.
You can find out more information here.
