Major earthworks are now underway on the Port Hedland Spoilbank Marina, unlocking local jobs and economic benefits.
The commencement of the major earthworks follows the successful completion of Stage 1, where roads were upgraded to enable materials to be safely transported to the construction site, as well as creating a future gateway to the new marina.
The $10 million Stage 2a bulk earthworks package has been awarded to MGN Civil Pty Ltd to construct the marina basin footprint and establish ground levels.
MGN Civil has committed to sourcing 80 per cent of contractors and suppliers from the Pilbara.
MGN Civil has also recently been awarded the $33 million contract for Stage 2c, which will include the construction of breakwaters to protect the marina from rough ocean conditions.
The tender for Stage 3, to design and construct marine structures including the boat ramp and marina pens, is currently advertised on the Tenders WA website.
The Spoilbank Marina project will transform Port Hedland's waterfront into a popular destination for locals and visitors.
When complete, the new marina will include a four-lane boat ramp, 21 boat pen marina with the capacity to expand to 80 pens, trailer parking for up to 200 vehicles, and public amenities.
The marina will alleviate demand on existing boat launching facilities, as well as improve boating safety, with a separate entrance channel created to the main shipping channel.
As stated by Transport and Ports Minister Rita Saffioti:
"The start of earthworks marks the beginning of the transformation of the long-awaited Spoilbank Marina.
"The Spoilbank Marina will become a vibrant place for the local community and tourists to visit and enjoy Western Australia's beautiful coastline.
"MGN Civil have committed to purchasing almost 80 per cent of goods and services from within the region, as well as hiring 75 per cent of plant requirements from Aboriginal businesses, creating flow on benefits for the local economy.
"Aboriginal-owned business Garli Pty Ltd delivered the major contract for Stage 1, valued at $4 million, with nine of the 26 jobs created filled by First Nations people including participation by the traditional owners, the Kariyarra people.
"I look forward to seeing this exciting project take shape, while creating local jobs and providing a welcome boost to the local economy."
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"Our Government has been getting on with the job of delivering this long-awaited project for the Hedland community.
"Works are now stepping up a notch and Hedlanders will soon see their Spoilbank transformed into an attractive and welcoming community marina."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"Delivering the Spoilbank Marina is one of my major election commitments and I'm pleased to see work on the earthworks now underway.
"This stage of the project will support more than 200 jobs, while also providing opportunities for local businesses and contractors.
"When complete, the Spoilbank Marina will be a beautiful place to visit and enjoy a famous Pilbara sunset.
"I'm proud to be a part of the McGowan Government who is continuing to deliver for the Pilbara."
