- A new $3.4 million elevated timber boardwalk will be constructed at Lake Clifton
- The new boardwalk will better allow visitors to view the thrombolites, while minimising environmental impact
- Helping more Western Australians enjoy and appreciate nature while protecting a globally significant ecosystem
A new $3.4 million, 145 metre timber boardwalk and 50 metre concrete connector path will be constructed at Lake Clifton, Mandurah to allow visitors to better view the thrombolites while protecting the surrounding fragile ecosystem.
Picton Civil Pty Ltd has been awarded the construction tender to replace the existing boardwalk, which was built in 1996 and has reached the end of its designed service life.
Construction of the new boardwalk is expected to be completed in early 2027, subject to weather and site conditions.
The Lake Clifton thrombolites in Yalgorup National Park are among the oldest living organisms on Earth and form a threatened ecological community. Yalgorup National Park is internationally recognised as a Ramsarlisted wetland, highlighting the global significance of the site and its unique ecosystems.
The Wagyl's Noorook Thrombolites Boardwalk Redevelopment Projectis supported by $1.7 million from the Australian Government's Priority Community Infrastructure Program as part of a broader $8 million commitment to the Peel Regional Trails project.
It is also supported by the Western Australian Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions with additional funding from the WA Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, and the City of Mandurah.
For the Bindjareb people, the thrombolites - known as Noorook, the eggs of the Wagyl, the creation snake, hold deep cultural significance. The new boardwalk has been carefully designed to minimise environmental impact and reflect the site's exceptional environmental and cultural values.
As stated by the Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn:
"This project has been possible through close collaboration with Traditional Owners, State Government, environmental organisations and local businesses, reflecting a shared commitment to protecting the Lake Clifton thrombolites for future generations.
"Yalgorup National Park offers an outstanding naturebased experience close to Perth, attracting around 500,000 visits each year and playing an important role in tourism and recreation across the Peel Region."
As stated by Senator for Western Australia Ellie Whiteaker:
"The Lake Clifton thrombolites are one of Western Australia's most extraordinary natural wonders, and the Albanese Government is proud to invest $1.7 million to ensure visitors can continue to experience them for generations to come.
"This new boardwalk is part of our broader $8 million commitment to the Peel Regional Trails, which is delivering real benefits for the Mandurah community and visitors from around the world."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Lake Clifton is one of the very few places where people can experience living thrombolites on their doorstep,the Cook and AlbaneseGovernmentsare proud to be supporting this investment which willbenefitboth regional tourism andworldsignificantnatural heritage.
"The Peel Regional Trails project is about connecting people to nature and local communities, while delivering high-quality visitor infrastructure that grows tourism, supports local economies and underpins sustainable regional development across the Peel region."
As stated by Peel Minister Jessica Stojkovski:
"The Peel region is home to some of Western Australia's most unique natural attractions, and the Lake Clifton thrombolites are a remarkable example of the experiences that draw visitors from across Australia and around the world.
"By investing in regional infrastructure like this new boardwalk, our Cook Labor Government is helping protect and restore Peel's environment, all while supporting local jobs and businesses, boosting the region's eco-tourism sector, and delivering lasting economic benefits through the Peel Regional Trails initiative."
As stated by City of Mandurah Mayor Amber Kearns:
"We're proud to see the new Wagyl's Noorook Thrombolites Boardwalk moving ahead, ensuring locals and visitors can experience the world-famous thrombolites while helping protect this unique place for generations to come.
"Investment in Yalgorup National Park is important for our economy, environment and strengthening the site's cultural significance.
"Through Transform Mandurah, this is one of the many projects in Yalgorup National Park that will improve sustainable tourism, local jobs and future opportunities while preserving the places that make Mandurah special."
