Geraldton breakwater contract to reduce surge closures

A CONTRACT for a surge protection breakwater at Geraldton in Western Australia, expected to reduce the 30 days a year being lost to the port, has been awarded to MGN Civil.

Part of the Mid West Ports Authority the Geraldton Port Maximisation Project (PMaxP), a state government media release said the breakwater will improve port resilience and reduce operational downtime caused by surge conditions.

Infrastructure will support future trade growth, renewable energy opportunities and expanded port operations.

The release described the issuing of the contract as a “major milestone”.

The surge protection breakwater is a key component of the $350 million state government funded PMaxP, which will optimise Geraldton Port to support future trade growth and emerging industries.

“The new breakwater has been designed to address the perennial problem of surge wave activity which closes the port at least 30 operational days each year.

“Once completed, the breakwater is expected to greatly reduce the frequency and severity of these events, lifting the overall capacity of the port for all port users and commodities.

“This initiative will reduce the costs of shipping for all customers and insure against delays to the urgent grain export program that follows each year's harvest.”

The breakwater is also designed to provide an improved sheltered mooring area for the harbour tugs.

It will also create the space needed for the future development of Berths 8 and 9 when these are needed for future trade growth, including support for emerging industry and the accelerating transition to renewable energy. Construction will begin later this year.

Ports minister Stephen Dawson said the surge protection would ensure the Port of Geraldton remains a strong gateway for regional trade.

"The new surge protection breakwater will improve the reliability and resilience of port operations, helping reduce weather-related disruptions and lifting service levels for all port users,” Mr Dawson said.

Sandra Carr MLC said the project is about creating long-term opportunities for the Mid West and supporting the industries and communities that rely on Geraldton Port every day.

"The breakwater will reduce the risks of interruption to the continuous timely export of the annual grain harvest, to secure the highest possible prices for the grain growers of the Mid West region,” Ms Carr said.

"It's fantastic to see another major package of work progressing, creating local economic activity and supporting the continued prosperity of the Mid West region.”