Perth Airport signs MOU with Australian Biome Project
Perth Airport and the Australian Biome Project will sign a Memorandum of Understanding which will ring fence a 15-hectare site in the Airport West precinct whilst the business case is worked up and the scheme developed.
The potential site is adjacent to the Airport Observation Deck and the airfield and close to both Tonkin Highway and the Redcliff railway station.Perth Airport’s Chief Executive Officer Kevin Brown said that the Biome project would complement the development of the Airport West precinct.
“Perth Airport is progressively developing land that is not required for current or future aviation purposes and our estate has already become the destination of choice for a number of business operators over recent years,” Mr Brown said.
“As a major employment centre new retail or tourism projects, which create jobs and economic activity, have become a very important part of our business.
“This agreement will allow the Biome Project team time to do the detailed work to determine the viability of the project and secure funding. While Perth Airport does not have a financial involvement in the project, this MOU will allow the Biome Project team to advance their work knowing that a suitable site is available.
“It will also allow them to undertake the important process of engaging and consulting with the indigenous traditional custodians of the airport estate through the Perth Airport Partnership Group.
Australian Biome Project spokesman Adam Barnard said the project draws inspiration from the Eden Project in Cornwall and Singapore’s Gardens by the Bay.
“We will look to develop large dome structures showcasing the rich biodiversity of WA, and will display Dreamtime creation stories, traditional lifestyles and Aboriginal art,” Mr Barnard said.
“The project is on an exceptional scale, and is designed to be a global attraction, filling our hotel rooms with visitors from around the world.
“Given its proximity to the CBD, the great transport links, and the way Perth Airport is becoming a consumer-focused retail hub, the Biome Project could be a welcome addition to Airport West,” Mr Barnard said.
Beverley Rebbeck - Australian Biome Board member (Aboriginal Affairs) said that It’s been an incredible and fantastic journey working with the Australian Biome team.
“This will be a project representative of all Aboriginal people and our culture throughout the state of WA. I am looking forward to helping develop new and exciting ways to share the stories, song lines and narratives of the Aboriginal dreamtime, and working closely with the Perth Airport,” Ms Rebbeck said.
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