Port of Weipa maintenance dredging set to begin

Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said the Port of Weipa played an important role in the region’s economy.

“Weipa is the largest community on the Cape York Peninsula, and the port is a major drive of our economy – especially as we continue our recovery from COVID-19,” Ms Lui said.

“We’re building a better Peninsula Developmental Road, investing in more infrastructure across all our Cape communities and making sure our freight industries can continue safely navigate to the port.”

NQBP CEO Nicolas Fertin said the dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane is due to begin work from late April 2021.

“Maintenance dredging works are an integral part of port operations,” Mr Fertin said.

“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.

The TSHD Brisbane will begin works soon at Weipa

“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.

“The works are expected to start in late April and take up to four (4) weeks to complete.”

Mr Fertin reminded boaties to take extra care when on the water during the dredging works.

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

This will be the first instance of maintenance dredging occurring at the Port of Weipa under NQBP’s new 10-year Commonwealth permit.

Included in the permit are a range of conditions that help to protect the marine environment. Environmental monitoring and management measures will be implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.

NQBP has managed the annual maintenance dredging program at the Port of Weipa for more than 30 years.

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

Images for download

• The Brisbane TSHD during Weipa dredging activities in 2020

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation contact
Emilie Power | Community Relations Advisor
07 4969 0773 | epower@nqbp.com.au