AUDC Busselton
Gresley Abas was engaged to deliver this landmark project in 2021. With concept design by BACA Architects, a UK-based architecture firm, Gresley Abas developed the design for construction and delivery by marine contractor Subcon Technologies.
The Australian Underwater Discovery Centre (AUDC) is planned to be Australia’s largest natural marine observatory. Located at the end of the Busselton Jetty, 2km out to sea, this exciting new multilevel structure is planned to offer art and science exhibits whilst showcasing underwater views and providing a range of hospitality offerings, including underwater dining and event space.
Inspired by the form of whales when breaching the surface of the ocean, the largely ‘green’ concrete structure will be positioned alongside the existing observatory. Alongside underwater art installations, the structure is intended to provide protection and habitat for marine life. Submerged windows, including the largest underwater window in the southern hemisphere, will frame views of a seagrass meadow, and the art and sea life of Geographe Bay.
Working with Subcon, an innovative construction methodology was developed to deliver this unique structure. Unfortunately, the global covid pandemic caused rapid, extensive cost increases across all areas of the construction budget so the decision was taken to delay the ‘Whale’ structure and focus on the design and development of the facilities to be located on the main Busselton Jetty.
