Tasmania’s $200 million ports infrastructure boost

In Devonport, bigger berths will be provided to cater for the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries and for private operator SeaRoad.

Container berths will be expanded in Burnie to cater for the bigger Toll freighters due to start operations next year, with significant dredging work expected.

Bell Bay will get a $10 million spend on improving berthing capacity as state-owned TasPorts envisages it will become the sole port for fuel imports into the future.

A new Antarctic logistics facility will be developed in Hobart.

Infrastructure Minister Jeremy Rockliff  said TasPorts’ investment was a sign of economic confidence and growth.

The money is expected to be spent over 10-15 years.

The Burnie work is expected to be the first project, and to start later this year.

How TasPorts described the projects:

BELL BAY

A $10 million investment will improve berthing capacity at Bell Bay No. 6 berth, optimising port facilities for industry.

Investment will enable forestry and mining exports from multiple berths, upgrade of fuel pipelines and increased capacity for fuel storage.

A new transport and wash-down system will assist forestry exports.

BURNIE

Approximately $80 million will be invested at Burnie, including the proposed international container terminal.

A project to dredge the berth to provide for Toll’s larger Bass Strait vessels is linked to initiatives to increased terminal capacity, install new ramp and link span infrastructure and extend the berth to accommodate the new vessels, which are expected to arrive in 2019.

Improved logistics and supply chain infrastructure for minerals exports.

Improved cruise facilities will enable more ship visits and tourism growth.

DEVONPORT

A $50-$60 million development will extend berthing facilities for passengers, cargo and freight.

Infrastructure will accommodate the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels arriving in 2021, allowing an additional 160,000 passengers annually to enter Devonport.

Extension of berthing facilities for leading Australian transport and logistics providers.

Benefits for commercial fishing with opportunity to add marina and public event facilities.

HOBART

TasPorts will invest $50-$60 million to develop a new Antarctic logistics precinct (to) support the Tasmanian Antarctic Gateway Strategy and attract further international programs.

A permanent base for RSV Nuyina, Australia’s latest ice breaker research vessel, which will arrive mid-2020.

A reorganised cruise precinct at Macquarie Wharf will provide additional berths for cruise vessels, allowing services to grow with demand.

Enhancements to Sullivans Cove as a visitor-friendly waterfront tourist destination.