North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) announced today that the Port of Mackay is buzzing with hi-vis activity in the run-up to Christmas, with up to 100 jobs being supported across three infrastructure projects currently underway.
Commenting the latest news, Member for Mackay, Julieanne Gilbert , said that it was part of the state’s economic recovery plan, with the latest infrastructure project to kick off being the extension of Wharf 1.
Mrs Gilbert said that Queensland-based company Davbridge Constructions would deliver the $2.4 million project, which will improve the Port’s capability to accept longer breakbulk material.
“The Wharf 1 project will help to build on the 195 shipping movements and 3.17 million throughput tonnes witnessed last financial year, despite COVID-19,” Mrs Gilbert said.
“Getting Queensland businesses to deliver upgrades for Queensland ports is vital to our state’s economic recovery, and will add to major road projects like the Walkerston Bypass and $120 million Mackay Northern Access Upgrade.”
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) Chief Executive Officer, Nicolas Fertin , added that the 120m2 extension of the Wharf 1 access bridge at the Port of Mackay will improve infrastructure capability to handle extra-long (up to 95m) cargoes.
“This will position the Port of Mackay to be able to take advantage of new, diversified trade opportunities such as rail, or renewables projects,” he said.
The project comes as upgrades on Wharf 4 reach the final stages with the installation of the 60-tonne steel access bridge by contractor V2R Projects.
Also progressing is the $1.5 million stabilization of the western revetment with Queensland-based contractors MGN Civil arriving on site earlier this month.
Maintenance dredging at the port will begin later this month, said NQBP.