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Posted by Allen Newton
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18 Sep, 2026
PILBARA Ports is progressing a suite of upgrades at the Port of Ashburton aimed at improving emergency response capability, maintaining navigational access and managing coastal processes as trade through the multi‑user port continues to expand.
The largest capital project now underway is the Ashburton Foundation Water and Fire Project, which will deliver permanent water and firefighting infrastructure to the Ashburton Cargo Wharf.
Works include a new seawater desalination plant, an expanded firefighting network, and a dedicated fire‑water tank. The project is scheduled for completion in January 2027.
Pilbara Ports chief executive Samuel McSkimming said the upgrades would provide a reliable water source for port users and significantly enhance emergency readiness. “This investment strengthens the port’s resilience and supports safe, efficient operations as Ashburton continues to grow,” he said.
Environmental monitoring has also triggered the next phase of the port’s Sand Bypassing Project, with works scheduled to begin in early 2027. Surveys undertaken in late 2025 identified sediment accumulation west of the Ashburton Cargo Wharf reaching management thresholds under the port’s Coastal Processes Monitoring and Management Plan.
The bypassing program will hydraulically transfer sand from the western side of the wharf to approved eastern areas, allowing sediment to re‑enter the natural coastal system.
Pilbara Ports says the works will help protect the East Ashburton Delta, Hooley Creek and navigational access while maintaining shoreline stability.
Routine operational works continue across the port, including hydrographic surveys, maintenance dredging and rectification ploughing in the Ashburton Cargo Wharf channel, basin and tug pens, as well as at the Mineral Resources Loading Terminal berth pocket and swing basin.
A 10‑day ploughing and survey campaign was completed in June, with ongoing maintenance ensuring safe depths for vessel movements.
Pilbara Ports frames the upgrades as part of its commitment to safe, sustainable and efficient port infrastructure supporting LNG, hydrocarbons, domestic gas supply and emerging industrial activity in the region.
