Visitor boardwalk upgrade for Shark Bay World Heritage Area
The reconstruction of the Hamelin Pool boardwalk in the Shark Bay World Heritage Area is underway, marking a significant milestone in restoring access to one of WA’s most remarkable natural environments.
The original boardwalk, which allowed visitors to view the globally significant stromatolites at close range, was severely damaged during Cyclone Seroja in 2021 and subsequently closed.
A 260‑metre boardwalk is now being constructed using specialist methods to minimise environmental disturbance. This approach is essential at Hamelin Pool, where the stromatolites — among the oldest known living life forms on Earth — represent a rare and fragile ecosystem that forms a core part of Shark Bay’s World Heritage values.
Due to the site’s remote location and environmental sensitivity, extensive planning and approvals were required. The project incorporates a construction methodology tailored to the unique conditions of Hamelin Pool, ensuring the surrounding environment remains protected.
Located approximately 1.5 hours from Denham, Hamelin Pool is a key visitor attraction on Australia’s Coral Coast, drawing people from across Australia and around the world to experience its ancient microbial structures and broader natural and cultural significance. Once completed, the new boardwalk will restore safe, managed access to this internationally important site, supporting both conservation outcomes and high‑quality visitor experiences.
Click here for more: https://www.dbca.wa.gov.au/news/2026/new-visitor-boardwalk-shark-bay-world-heritage-area
