CONSTRUCTION of a new tug mooring facility at the Port of Esperance is set to begin within months, with Southern Ports awarding the build contract as part of a $14.9 million upgrade to modernise ageing marine infrastructure and expand towage capacity.
The project will replace the port’s existing tug jetties, which are at end‑of‑life, with new berths capable of accommodating up to four tugboats — doubling the current capacity.
The works include demolition of the existing structures, installation of new piles, bollards and fenders, and construction of purpose‑built berthing for Esperance’s towage fleet.
Southern Ports has appointed Advanteering Civil Engineers to deliver the project, drawing on the contractor’s experience with similar marine works. Demolition is scheduled to begin in January, with construction expected to be completed in the first half of 2027.
Ports minister Stephen Dawson said the upgrade would strengthen Esperance’s role as a key southern gateway for regional trade.
“The new tug facility at the Port of Esperance will create additional capacity for tugs within the port,” he said.
“Upgrading facilities at WA ports is vital to ensuring they continue to connect our regional miners and producers to global opportunities without interruption.”
Mr Dawson said the state government would continue investing in port infrastructure to support industry competitiveness.
Southern Ports chief executive Keith Wilks said the new berths would support safe and efficient vessel movements at Esperance, which recorded more than 180 ship calls last year.
“Tugs play a critical role in making sure these vessels berth safely and effectively,” he said. “It’s critical that the port’s tugs have a suitable place to be moored between movements so they are ready to work with our marine team and visiting vessel masters around the clock.”
Mr Wilks said well‑planned investment in port infrastructure was essential to maintaining trade continuity, and the new tug jetties represented a significant step in strengthening Esperance’s marine capability.
Advanteering managing director Tom Cunningham said the company was pleased to be working with Southern Ports on a project central to port operations. “We understand this is a critical piece of infrastructure and we’re looking forward to delivering a fit‑for‑purpose facility that will meet the current and future needs of Southern Ports,” he said.
The upgrade forms part of broader efforts to enhance marine resilience and operational readiness across WA’s regional ports.