Western Australian based company TAMS Group has been awarded the contract to build a new outer wall as part of the second stage of the $72.5 million Nelson Point Tug Haven upgrade project at the Port of Port Hedland.
The Nelson Point Tug Haven was constructed in 1985, and over time has deteriorated due to the impacts of cyclones, and wear-and-tear from more powerful and larger tugboats mooring at the haven.
The new tug haven outer sheet pile wall will be designed to better withstand severe thunderstorms and cyclones, providing a safe and reliable asset for port users.
As part of the contract award with TAMS, Pilbara-based businesses will also provide works valued at $3.25 million.
In addition to the new outer wall, the second stage of the project will also include the demolition of the existing outer wall and the installation of gangways and pontoons.
The first stage of the project to stabilise the tug haven revetments began in October 2021. All upgrades to the tug haven are expected to be completed by mid-2024.
Comments attributed to Ports Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The Pilbara region continues to be the driving force for our State and national economies, and our ports are playing an integral role in delivering our exports to the world.
"Given how critical our ports are, we need to make sure we grow and maintain the infrastructure, so that we continue to harness the economic opportunities that are available.
"Last year, tug boats guided more than 6,600 large vessels into and out of the Port of Port Hedland - which is why it is essential we provide fit-for-purpose infrastructure to safely house them."
Comments attributed to Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"My focus is to ensure local businesses continue to see the benefit of the significant amount of investment being made in the Pilbara region - and this project is another great example.
"It's brilliant that local businesses have the opportunity to work on major projects within the communities they live, reinjecting money back into the local economy."