Pilbara Ports is continuing to conduct condition inspections of its facilities at the Port of Dampier and the Port of Ashburton following Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle (34U).
Port of Dampier The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however significant damage was identified across Pilbara Ports general cargo precinct, and all general cargo import operations remain suspended. The Dampier Cargo Wharf and adjacent floating deck facility remain inoperable due to structural damage. The Bulk Liquids Berth is operable, and fuel imports are not affected.
Further engineering assessments, including underwater inspections and marine surveys will continue over the next few days. These assessments will inform when safe general cargo import operations can resume.
Port of Ashburton The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however Pilbara Ports Ashburton Cargo Wharf remains closed. Engineering teams are now able to access the port, and inspections will be carried out over the next few days.
Port of Varanus Island The Port of Varanus Island re-opened on 28 March 2026. Its operations are not impacted.
Pilbara Ports is committed to effecting repairs and restoring capability as safely and efficiently as possible across the ports of Dampier and Ashburton. It will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Refer to Media Statement Update 1 - Saturday 28 March 2026 for more detail.
Dampier Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) is authorised in accordance with the provisions of Marine Order 64 (Vessel Traffic Service) 2022.
Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has issued an Instrument of Authority authorising Pilbara Ports to render vessel traffic service in Dampier VTS Area as defined in IMO Resolution A.1158(32).
The purpose of VTS is to contribute to the safety of life at sea, improve the safety and efficiency of navigation and support the protection of the environment within a VTS area by mitigating the development of unsafe situations through
Port of Dampier VTS Coverage Area Map
It is mandatory for all vessels with an overall length greater than 35m, and commercial vessels of any size, to participate in the VTS when operating within the VTS coverage area.
Dampier VTS may request any other vessel entering the VTS coverage area to participate in the VTS reporting requirements.
P: 08 9159 6556 M: 0428 888 800 (emergencies only) E: dampier.vts@pilbaraports.com.au Channel: VHF 11 and 16