Australian Underwater Discovery Centre Unveils Whale-Shaped Design

The design of the Australian Underwater Discovery Centre has been unveiled, following a public voting process for the favorite design. The winning concept is a whale-shaped building that will be partially submerged in the sea, located two hours south of Perth.

This center aims to become Australia’s largest natural marine observatory, situated at the end of Busselton Jetty, 2 km out at sea. The underwater discovery center will include an underwater trail and dining options, providing visitors with a thrilling view of life beneath the sea’s surface. Construction is expected to commence in 2021, with the center anticipated to open by December 2022.

There were two other designs competing for the $30 million project, alongside the winning Cetacean design, which mimics a whale’s head rising above Geographe Bay. The Rock design drew inspiration from Castle Rock in Western Australia, while the Voyage design reflects the silhouette of a ship moored at the pier. Baca Architects are leading the architectural efforts for this project.

The interior of the center features openings designed to resemble the eyes of a whale, allowing visitors to gaze beneath the surface of the water. As they navigate through art galleries and exhibition spaces, they will eventually reach the expansive observatory floor. “This is as authentic as it gets, because people are in the tank and the fish are looking in,” states Busselton Jetty chairman, Barry House. He adds, “By incorporating underwater dining, sculptures, marine art, and other attractions, this project will enhance Busselton Jetty’s 155-year-old experience.”