Port of Weipa maintenance dredging set to begin

Port of Weipa.

Dredging will also be completed at Amrun on behalf of Rio Tinto.

Dredge vessels TSHD Brisbane and Oranje will work within the Port of Weipa and Amrun from approximately 3 June and to 17 July inclusive.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Fertin said this year’s maintenance dredging program is more extensive than previous years due to several significant weather events.

“Cyclones Owen, Penny and Trevor, combined with a large monsoonal event this year have contributed to an increase in siltation at the Port of Weipa,” Mr Fertin said.

“As a result, this year’s maintenance dredging program will be longer in duration and will use two dredge vessels,” he said.

Mr Fertin said maintenance dredging works are an integral part of the port’s operations.

“In the same way we maintain roads and rail lines for freight transport, we need to look after our port infrastructure to keep trade flowing.

“NQBP manages the annual maintenance dredging program at the Port of Weipa - a program that has run for more than 30 years.

“Regular maintenance dredging ensures efficient, navigable shipping depths for our port users.

“It’s undertaken by port authorities around the world and is critical for maintaining port infrastructure.

“While the maintenance dredging works are being completed, we urge local and visiting boaties to take extra care when on the water.

“The Brisbane and Oranje, with their support vessels, have restricted manoeuvring capability. We urge people on the water to pay close attention to displayed warning flags and lights.”

Environmental monitoring and management measures will be implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.

Background documents

• Port of Weipa Long-Term Maintenance Dredging Management Plan
• Weipa Maintenace Dredging Supplementary Information
• Weipa Seagrass Survey May 2019
• Port of Weipa Ambient Marine Water Quality Monitoring Program (January - July 2018)