Published on Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 10:45:19 AM
The Shire of Murray has secured $100,000 through the State Government’s Coastal Adaptation and Protection Grant Program to help protect historic Cooper’s Mill and its foreshore from coastal erosion and inundation, with the first stage of the project due for completion by mid-2027.
The funding, administered by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI), will support works to improve the resilience of Cooper’s Mill, a state heritage-listed landmark on the western end of Cooleenup Island in South Yunderup.
The Mill and its surrounding foreshore are increasingly vulnerable to coastal hazards, with repeated inundation events flooding the building’s floor and depositing sand and seagrass inside. Future projections also indicate a growing risk of coastal erosion, with the site expected to be impacted by erosion hazards by 2030.
To better understand these risks and identify appropriate protection measures, the Shire commissioned a Foreshore Management Plan, prepared by Water Technology in 2026. The plan recommends constructing a new seawall, with a PVC sheet pile wall identified as the most suitable option to protect the receding northern foreshore.
Shire of Murray President Douglas McLarty said the funding was an important step towards protecting the Mill’s heritage value and improving the long-term resilience of the foreshore.
“Cooper’s Mill is a special part of our local history and an important landmark for the Shire of Murray. Its unique location and heritage significance make it a place worth protecting for future generations.
“Securing $100,000 through the Coastal Adaptation and Protection Grant Program will help us take practical action to address the growing risks of coastal erosion and inundation, while protecting the heritage, environmental and recreational values of this much-loved location.
The proposed works will deliver benefits beyond the protection of the Mill itself. Strengthening the foreshore will help reduce erosion risks to surrounding public areas and infrastructure, including jetties, paths and recreational facilities, while supporting the health of estuarine and foreshore ecosystems.
The project reflects the Shire’s commitment to proactive coastal management and planning for the impacts of climate change, balancing heritage protection, environmental values, community needs and long-term financial sustainability.
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