Warning on sunken vessels but Dampier gradually reopening

IT IS NOW safe to use Pilbara Ports general cargo precinct following damage caused by Cyclone Narelle last month.

Pilbara Ports has completed most inspections at the Port of Dampier and the Port of Ashburton following the cyclone which passed over the West Pilbara on 26 and 27 March 2026.

Two recreational vehicles sunk during the cyclone and one washed ashore still represent a hazard to vessels.

While the Port of Dampier reopened on 28 March, significant damage occurred across Pilbara Ports general cargo precinct and general cargo import operations.

A notice from Pilbara Ports said the Dampier Cargo Wharf will require extensive repairs but it will be safe to resume partial operations on 7 April for the importation of general cargo.

“Qube’s floating deck facility (ro-ro) is now partially operable and the import of oversize modules to support local construction projects will re-start from today (3 April),” the notice said.

The Bulk Liquids Berth remains operable, and fuel imports have not been affected.

The Port of Ashburton reopened on 28 March, but the Ashburton Cargo Wharf remains partially closed as a section of guardrail needs to be removed from the eastern end of the berth pocket. Divers will be mobilised next week to conduct the removal activity.

The Port of Varanus Island re-opened on 28 March with no impact to its operations.

Pilbara Ports CEO Sam McSkimming said the combination of heavy rainfall, destructive winds, large waves and abnormally high tides associated with ex-Tropical Cyclone Narelle caused damage to port infrastructure, particularly across general cargo facilities at Dampier.

“Our priority has been to safely restore operations as quickly as possible while undertaking thorough inspections and damage assessments,” Mr McSkimming said.

The notice about the wrecks said two of the vessels were completely submerged, with only limited portions of each vessel visible above the water during low tide conditions.

“These wrecks present a hazard to surface navigation. Mariners are advised to exercise extreme caution,” the notice said.

Pilbara Ports has requested the owners of the recreational vessels contact Dampier Vessel Traffic Service on (08) 9159 6556.

This notice is to remain in effect until the wreckage has been safely removed.

A final update on the cyclone is to be provided next week after all port assessments are completed.