Ellen Cove Jetty facts for kids
The Ellen Cove Jetty, also known as the Middleton Beach Jetty, is a long pier found at the southern end of Middleton Beach. This beach is located in King George Sound, near the city of Albany. Albany is in the Great Southern region of Western Australia.
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Building the Jetty
Work on the Ellen Cove Jetty began in late 1899. Workers started by driving strong piles into the sand at Ellen Cove. The jetty was finished in 1901. It cost about £150 to build back then.
What the Jetty Was Used For
In the past, the jetty was very important for Albany. It helped transport goods and people. Boats would dock there to load and unload items. People also used it to travel to and from the area.
Fun at the Jetty Today
Today, the Ellen Cove Jetty is mainly used for fun activities. People love to walk along it and enjoy the ocean views. It's a popular spot for fishing. Many visitors also enjoy swimming near the jetty.
How the Jetty is Built
The jetty is made from strong materials like reinforced concrete and wood. It has 15 concrete piles that stand in the water. These piles are spaced out evenly. Wooden planks connect the piles, forming the walking surface. The jetty has been rebuilt several times over the years. This means none of the original structure from 1901 remains today.
A Special Place
The Ellen Cove Jetty is considered a special historical site. In 2000, it was listed with the Heritage Council of Western Australia. This listing also included the tall, old Norfolk Island pine trees along the shoreline. These trees add to the beauty of the area.
The Shark Barrier
In 2016, a special barrier was built around the waters near the jetty. This is called the Middleton Beach shark barrier. It helps keep swimmers safe from sharks. The barrier encloses the swimming area around the jetty. This makes it a secure place for families to enjoy the water.
