Navigation aids to be replaced

Navigation at Port Hedland port will soon become easier now contracts have been awarded to replace ageing infrastructure.

Two contracts have been awarded to replace ageing channel markers offshore within the port, which assist with the navigation of vessels entering and departing port waters.

Austral Construction has been awarded a contract to replace 35 offshore navigation aids, while Total AMS won the contract to replace three land-based navigation aids at the Port of Port Hedland.

Austral’s construction works are due to begin early next year, while Total AMS’s work on land-based navigation aids will begin next month.

The two contracts total about $30 million and were awarded after separate open tender processes.

WA Minister for Transport Rita Saffioti said the channel marker replacement program would ensure the ongoing safe and reliable navigation system for vessels for the next 25 years.

“As most of the navigation aids are between 28 and 40 years old, and have exceeded their design life, the program will reduce the risk of these critical structures failing and negatively impacting on vessel operations,” she said.

“The replacement program will also comply with current maritime standards and industry best practice for aids to navigation and improved structural integrity and maintainability of the navigation aids.”

During construction, port operations should remain unaffected.