We all want a secure water future for Albany, but Nanarup Beach is the wrong place for a desalination plant.

Nanarup lies on the eastern edge of King George Sound, an area previously identified as unsuitable for desalination infrastructure because of its ecological sensitivity and the importance of maintaining clean, open waters. Water Corp’s own planning principles note that sites should allow good brine dispersion, minimise ecological impact, and make use of existing industrial areas.

Despite this, Nanarup Beach remains on the shortlist. If brine and treatment biocides were discharged here, prevailing wind-driven currents could limit dispersion and allow pollutants to build up in the Sound, affecting marine life and fragile coastal ecosystems. The surrounding area also supports vulnerable species and habitats, including one of Australia’s rarest mammals, the Gilbert’s potoroo.

Beyond environmental concerns, Nanarup is:

•  A much-loved public beach used for surfing, fishing and family recreation.
• Culturally and environmentally significant to the community.
• A natural landscape with no existing industrial footprint.

Nanarup Beach does not meet key environmental, social, cultural or planning criteria used by Water Corp to assess potential sites. Similar coastal areas such as Frenchman’s Bay, Cosy Corner and Mutton Bird Beach have already been ruled out through council motions, and Nanarup should be treated the same way.

This petition is not against desalination as a solution. It calls for responsible site selection that aligns with planning principles, protects King George Sound, safeguards wildlife, and respects community values.

We ask the City of Albany and Water Corporation to formally remove Nanarup Beach from the desalination site shortlist.

🖊️ Sign this petition to help protect Nanarup, King George Sound and the surrounding environment from inappropriate industrial development.