$8.3m to extend Exmouth Harbour

The $8.3 million contract for the biggest component of the Exmouth Boat Harbour upgrade has been awarded by the State Government.

Wangara-based Ertech have been awarded the contract to build the 88m extension to the wharf, hardstand extension, four new trawler pens and to raise the southern breakwater.

Transport Minister Dean Nalder said work would start on marine structures and civil works next month.

“About 7600cum of locally sourced rock will be used to increase the height of the breakwater to protect the trawler pens, while about 140 tonnes of steel will be used to extend the wharf to provide a new heavy lift zone and hardstand, significantly increasing the capacity of the facility,” he said.

Mr Nalder said the project was on track for completion by mid-2017.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said these works were the most important stage of the project’s implementation.

“As the largest harbour south of the Pilbara, Exmouth is strategically well placed and this upgrade reinforces the facility as an important maritime hub in the State's north,” he said.

“The Exmouth Boat Harbour will better accommodate and service the rapidly growing supply vessel traffic, supporting the resources industry, as well as the growing tourist and recreational vessel traffic for the benefit of both current and future generations.”

The upgraded breakwater and wharf extension are expected to have a 50-year life.