Recfishwest, a non-profit organisation representing the interests of Western Australian recreational fishers, and global energy company Woodside have collaborated to install the Dampier Artificial Reef.
The Dampier Artificial Reef is a new, pupose-built artificial reef designed to boost recreational fishing opportunities and enhance marine biodiversity off the Western Australian coast. Backed by scientific research and community input, it has the support of the WA Government, City of Karratha, Traditional Owners and fishing clubs. It aims to create a new marine habitat and boost recreational fishing opportunities in the Pilbara region. The reef consists of 48 purpose-built concrete modules installed in approximately 35 metres of water, near Rosemary Island in the Dampier Archipelago, Western Australia. Each module is designed with complex internal spaces and hard surfaces to encourage coral growth, shelter juvenile fish and attract larger species higher up the food chain, creating a thriving and sustainable marine ecosystem. The 48 concrete reef modules were installed on the seabed from Fugro’s multipurpose vessel, the Fugro Etive.
Over time, the site is expected to become a high-quality fishing location for species such as Spanish mackerel, cobia, emperor, cod and even sailfish – a welcome addition for local fishers and visiting anglers alike, while supporting local tourism. Similar projects, such as Exmouth’s King Reef, have transformed bare sand into vibrant habitats supporting more than 150 fish species within five years.
Recfishwest CEO Dr Andrew Rowland said, “The deployment of the Dampier Artificial Reef will provide new fishing opportunities while enhancing fish habitats. Our collaboration with Woodside demonstrates what can be achieved when industry and the recreational fishing community work together for positive outcomes.
“These scientifically designed structures build healthier oceans — supporting biodiversity, boosting fish stocks and strengthening ecosystem resilience. Most importantly, they create fantastic new fishing opportunities particularly in this instance for pelagic species like mackerel and sailfish, and all the flow-on benefits that brings to coastal communities,” he said.
Woodside acting executive vice president & chief operating officer Australia Breyden Lonnie said, "Woodside is excited to collaborate with Recfishwest and the local fishing community to bring this new reef to life. The reef is expected to provide a productive marine habitat for diverse species of algae and corals, supporting an abundance of fish life to feed and shelter. Not only is the reef expected to contribute to marine biodiversity; it will also be an added drawcard to boost fishing tourism to the Pilbara, supporting the local economy and communities."
The installation of the reef was funded by Woodside and its Scarborough Joint Venture partners JERA Australia and LNG Japan. Woodside’s joint venture partner in the Enfield Joint Venture, Mitsui E&P Australia, contributed to the acquisition of the concrete modules for the reef.
