Timber style for foreshore platforms

Concept designs for two new platforms at the Point Samson foreshore, including a traditional timber-look jetty, have been endorsed as priority works under the town’s beachside upgrade project.

Initial concept designs for a new viewing platform and fishing platform were supported by City of Karratha councillors at their July council meeting and will now move into a detailed design phase.

The viewing platform would be completed as stage one, followed by the fishing platform as a second stage, with the overall structure to be built in an older timber-look style and provide views over the historic rail carriages and beach.

Point Samson Community Association played a key role in advising on the platforms’ design and president Michelle Bez said the group was glad to have council support for progressing the project.

“Once established the jetty (or) viewing platform will provide locals and visitors with an opportunity to take in some local history,” she said.

“The installation of high-powered binoculars will enhance the experience by proving an opportunity to witness the vast number of migratory birds, humpback whales and marine life along our coastline and views to Cossack, Jarman Island and Cape Lambert.

“The iconic old Samson Jetty was known Australia-wide for the fishing experience it provided, it was a huge drawcard for attracting tourists and played a significant part in our local economy.

“The completion of this iconic project will be welcomed by all.”

City of Karratha Mayor Peter Long said approving designs for the two new platforms was the latest opportunity the City and PSCA had identified for the town’s foreshore development works.

“The Point Samson foreshore is a special place for the local community and a key attraction for visitors,” he said.

Karratha Visitor Centre manager Jane Knapp said it was promising to see foreshore development works progressing for Point Samson, especially the old-style jetty design in keeping with the area’s “small seaside town” atmosphere.

“For people to be able to pull up there and have something that’s still linked to the history of the area as well, not just something modern and new, but still keeping with the iconic side of it, is good,” she said.

“There is heaps of room for (tourism) growth, especially in the product development side of things, and having those little towns made a little more accessible means hopefully we’ll get some product development.”