To: Decision makers & influencers within the South Australian Government 

We are specifically asking for the SA Government to commit to making the waters surrounding the old Rapid Bay Jetty safe, by removing all unsafe structures from the jetty, in order to restore in water access for diving and other recreational purposes.

The old Rapid Bay jetty is a site of longstanding environmental, recreational, and economic value to South Australia. It supports a wide range of users, including divers, snorkelers, educators, researchers, local businesses and tourism operators, and plays a significant role in connecting South Australians with the marine environment.

As one of the few dive sites in the State accessible directly from shore, it is critical for dive training, low-barrier participation, and community engagement. The site is also a renowned destination for observing South Australia’s official marine emblem, the iconic Leafy Sea Dragon, drawing local, interstate and overseas visitors. It is a world class site that has been visited by international award winning photographers, who have in turn done much to attract high end tourism to South Australia.  Rapid Bay jetty is considered a bucket list destination by many.

Since the jetty’s closure following continued deterioration and storm damage, and without a clear public plan for remediation, the impacts have been considerable.

• Dive operators, some of whom are entirely reliant on Rapid Bay, have experienced significant business disruption, placing livelihoods at risk, through:
  • Training disruption;
  • Economic loss from guided tours;
  • Loss of employment for dive guides;
  • Decline in local diving activity and the flow on effects.
•  Local businesses (e.g. cafes, accommodation providers etc.)  that benefit from the thousands of local, interstate and international visitors to the site annually.
• Divers and snorkelers, many of whom turn to the ocean for mental clarity and wellbeing, are left with fewer accessible options. This is particularly relevant at a time when large sections of the coastline are affected by persistent algal blooms.
• Divers and snorkelers have lost access to a well-established site that supports connection to nature and community activity.

The current in water exclusion zone surrounding the jetty raises broader concerns about public access to important marine environments. Access to nature shouldn't be closed off.

We respectfully request that the SA Government:

• Commit to making the waters surrounding the old Rapid Bay Jetty safe, by removing all unsafe structures from the jetty, in the most cost effective manner, in order to restore in water access for diving and other recreational purposes, whilst also maintaining an appropriate habitat for the Leafy Sea Dragon and other marine species.
• Publish a clear, time-bound plan for assessment and “make safe” repair.
• Engage transparently with affected stakeholders and the broader public.
• Act within a reasonable time frame to minimise further disruption to tourism, community wellbeing and the coastal economy.

Photo credit: Trek Hopton