Aquarius Barrier Installed at Ellen Cove, Middleton Beach in Albany

The Aquarius Barrier was successfully installed at Ellen Cove in Albany. The installation process was generally smooth and well planned; the only hurdles we encountered were environmental factors such as a shark attack on a pygmy whale and poor weather conditions. After successfully tendering for the contract in December last year, we managed to complete the installation 3 weeks ahead of our anticipated schedule. 

The installation team began with the blocks, chains and anchors last Monday and after installing all the permanent infrastructure we had to finish off the process by connecting the barrier to the ground chains. The Aquarius Barrier is delivered pre-assembled to site which significantly reduces the amount of time spent assembling on the beach and minimises the disruption to the local community. The last part of the installation, connecting the barrier to the ground chain, turned out to be the most difficult part of the process as we had to wait for a period of good weather so that the installation dive team could safely work in the swell. 

We produced a short video that outlines the installation process:

Global Marine Enclosures Awarded Tender for Eco-Friendly Shark Barrier at Middleton Beach, Albany

On Wednesday December 17, the City of Albany awarded the tender contract for the supply and installation of a swimming enclosure to Global Marine Enclosures. The successful tender was for a 310m eco-friendly shark barrier that will span from the rocks on Ellen Cove to the beach in front of the Surf Club.

The tender was established following a funding allocation from the WA State Government as the Western Australian shark management strategy, led by Colin Barnett, shifts from the shark culling trials towards protective swimming enclosures.  

The contract is on a 3 year trial basis which will allow the City of Albany an opportunity to assess whether it is an asset that benefits the local community. 

We are very excited about the announcement and aim to provide the highest level of service to the City of Albany and the Albany community not only for the installation of the barrier but for the entire lifespan of the barrier.

Read more here in the local Western Australian newspaper >>