A SHIPWRECK just a stone’s throw from the beach will anchor a new maritime trail at Port Coogee.
The Coogee Maritime Trail will include a land-based pathway with artefacts and a new viewing area to glimpse the century-old Omeo wreck.
About 30 new artificial reefs, underwater sculptures and educational signage will be installed for divers.
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READ NOWThe trail will be 230m long.
Cockburn Mayor Logan Howlett said the trail would a stunning addition to a coastline already boasting a marina, shark barrier, surf club and popular fishing jetties.
“Cockburn boasts a number of incredible tourist attractions and it’s wonderful to see an initiative which will link the City’s unique past to its vibrant future,” he said.
“The Coogee Maritime Trail will create a habitat for marine species, inform the community about the significance of the marine environment and promote WA’s important maritime history.”
The Omeo was built in the UK in 1858.
In September 1905, packed with coal, the ship was blown ashore and wrecked off Coogee.
Despite resting just off the coast, its history remains largely unknown to the public.
That should change once the trail is opened next summer.
The dive trail is being developed by the City in partnership with the WA Museum, Murdoch University Divers Club and Perth NRM.
The pathway and viewing area will be developed by Frasers Property Australia.
The City has also partnered with UWA to monitor expected changes to the area’s habitat.
The City received a $78,000 grant from Lotterywest to go towards the project.
It was presented to the City by South Metropolitan MLC Nicolas Goiran on Friday.