WA’s first-of-its-kind artificial reef reels in the snorkellers

After losing more than 50m of shoreline over the past two decades to coastal erosion, an artificial reef at CY O’Connor Beach in North Coogee has not only turned the tide on erosion it has also created a new coastal hotspot for snorkelling.

The first of its kind in WA, the reef has reduced the impact and height of waves reaching the shoreline and, over time, has also attracted twice the number of fish species into the area. In addition to fish, snorkellers can also see starfish, molluscs, and sea urchins.

The reef structures are close to shore, providing easy access for snorkelling, and are part of the Coogee Maritime Trail, which includes the Omeo shipwreck a little further south, off Coogee Beach. The trail also features an underwater gallery.

Along the same stretch and even closer to shore is the wreck of the SS Wyola, an old steam-powered tugboat. Most of the wreck is buried in the sand, with some sections visible in and above the water. Just nearby and also in the water is a statue commemorating CY O’Conner, WA’s renowned first engineer-in-chief.

If you’re planning to make a day of it, just adjacent to CY O’Connor Beach is a grassed picnic area with barbeques, picnic tables, toilets, and showers. CY O’Connor Beach is also a designated dog beach.