While wave pools may be the manmade surfing development du jour, there’s other synthetic wave-making avenues out there that are gaining some steam. For instance, an artificial reef in Western Australia, which recently opened, and creates “perfect” waves.
The Southern Ocean Surf Reef was recently unveiled in Albany, Western Australia. And although the area gets consistent swell, the bathymetry wasn’t suitable for surfing. “The southern coast of Western Australia is known for powerful swells generated by storms in the Indian Ocean,” says the project. “These swells consistently make their way into Albany beaches where frequent offshore winds help groom them. However, the monotonous shoreline does not shape the swells into a consistent, quality surfable waves.”
So, they decided to make their own reef.
With contributions totaling up to $10 million, the project got underway. And after construction beneath the surface, it finally opened on July 16th. How’s it looking? So far so good.
“Well, I’m a surfer and I like a good wave,” one local said. “I don’t really care how much money was spent. [Laughs.]”
Regarding the quality of the reef, another local surfer added: “We don’t have many waves around here that have a top-to-bottom punchy takeoff wave. And this wave is that. It’s a really high-performance wave.”
Other artificial reef projects have been created in the past, but they never really took off. Perhaps after the initial success of this one, the developments will begin to take off. TBD.
Local officials are stoked, too. Federal Acting Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Julie Collins said:
“Middleton Beach is a much-loved destination for both locals and tourists and this new artificial surf reef is an exciting addition. This project will cater to surfers of all levels by creating safer and more consistent surf conditions, unlike some of the more challenging breaks in the area. It’s a terrific project and our government is very proud to have supported it.”
More artificial reefs to come in the near future?