Work has started on dredging at Lumsden Point in the WA Port of Port Hedland, with approximately one million cubic metres of material to be removed over the next eight weeks.
The dredging will create a deeper access channel, swing basin and berth pockets to ensure the safe and efficient berthing of vessels at the new Lumsden Point facility.
Earlier this year, Jan De Nul (Australia) was awarded the contract for these vital dredging and land reclamation activities.
Extensive preparatory works have already been completed, culminating in the arrival of the JFJ De Nul cutter suction dredge in Port Hedland earlier this week.
Environmental monitoring is being carried out as part of the dredging program to minimise the risk of impact to surrounding habitats.
Dredged material will be disposed of at a designated reclamation area within Lumsden in accordance with an approved Environmental Management Plan.
Lumsden Point will facilitate the export of battery metals such as lithium and copper concentrates, the import of renewable energy infrastructure including wind turbines and blades, as well as support the growth of direct shipping services to the Pilbara.
The Australian Government is investing $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara, $450 million of which will enable the development of new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point.
This is in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which is contributing $96.6 million to the project.
BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill and the Hancock Prospecting/Mineral Resources Joint Venture have committed a total of $65 million towards dredging costs.
Further information about the Lumsden Point project is available at www.pilbaraports.com.au
Federal Infrastructure Minister Catherine King said the Australian Government was delivering $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara to help unlock trade and investment opportunities and support a future made in Australia.
“This project is all about investment in quality infrastructure which encourages and supports opportunities for local businesses and communities,” she said.
“We will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to ensure that this vital infrastructure progresses .”
WA Ports Minister David Michael said the commencement of the dredging and reclamation works represented a significant milestone in the project’s advancement which would help diversify trade in the Pilbara.
“Upon completion, Lumsden Point is expected to boost Australia’s gross domestic product by $2.1 billion per annum,” he said.
“It is expected to save 3.6 million tonnes of emissions by 2055 by supporting direct shipping to the Pilbara and providing a pathway for renewable energy infrastructure.”