The Raft operator has flagged a redesign and relocation of the floating restaurant to the South Perth foreshore, which is expected to cost $2 million.
The Raft operator has flagged a redesign and relocation of the floating restaurant to the South Perth foreshore, which is expected to cost $2 million.
Old Salt Perth proposes to move Oceanlink 125, the 440 square metre barge operating as The Raft, to the riverbank west of Mends Street Jetty and near Mindeerup Piazza in South Perth.
As part of the relocation, Old Salt Perth proposed to construct a mooring jetty for the renovated barge to be permanently moored.
The Raft, owned by siblings Katie and Dan Chrystal, was constructed along Elizabeth Quay, near the Barrack Street Jetty and opened in 2020.
The restaurant has been closed for a refit and relocation but slated for a re-opening in mid-2026, according to The Raft’s website.
As part of the relocation, the restaurant is set to be rebranded as ‘South Perth Wharf’ and will include a restaurant, coffee shop, and take-away fish and chips joint.
Old Salt Perth submitted its application to the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions, which has published documents for public consultation.
The estimated cost of the proposal is $2 million, according to the documents.
In its application, the proponent said South Perth Wharf would establish a landmark floating hospitality precinct to support existing offerings in the area.
“The panoramic City and river views will become a signature drawcard for tourists to South Perth,” the application read.
“South Perth Wharf will act as a driver of business to the locality, drawing more tourists and day trippers to the South Perth foreshore.
“Further, it will compliment nearby attractions such as Perth Zoo and Mends St Jetty.”
Mr Chrystal is listed as the sole director of Old Salt Perth, Australian Securities and Investments Commission data shows.
The Raft venue was built for a 50-year life span in harsh marine environments with its heavy steel structure covered in paint-on corrosion protection, according to the documents.
“The new venue at South Perth Wharf, located off Mindeerup Piazza in South Perth, will transform the open layout of The Raft into a more permanent bar/ restaurant offering a variety of seating options,” according to the application.
South Perth Wharf is proposed to open until late everyday with permanent seating for 135 people, alfresco dining for 52 seats, and 16 patrons in the café takeaway area.
The proposed rebrand will seat fewer patrons compared to the 250-person capacity at The Raft.
DBCA will compile a report for the Swan River Trust, after the public consultation period ends in mid-January.
The state’s Environment Minister will be the final decision maker for the proposal to redesign and relocate The Raft to South Perth.
