A construction milestone has been reached for a project that will boost tourism and marine services in the East Arnhem region.
The new 63 metre long rock groyne has been constructed near Nhulunbuy at Inverell Bay, Gunyangara, as part of the Gunyangara (Gove Port) Tourism Project.
The project includes the new extended rock groyne, careening facilities that vessels can dock alongside for maintenance, a floating pontoon extending from the groyne, a washdown bay, car park upgrades and an entry structure at Gove Boat Club.
The rock groyne was constructed using approximately 6000 tonnes of rock sourced from the nearby Gulkula Quarry, and a further 850 cubic metres of concrete recycled from the site.
Works are progressing to construct the road on top of the rock groyne and on the installation of a temporary rock pad and footings for the careening structure.
DTA Contractors worked with the Gulkula Quarry to build local capacity as the company expands its business to support other infrastructure projects. To date the project has employed 8 Indigenous workers at the Quarry to source, process and deliver the rock for the project.
The $9.3 million Gunyangara (Gove Port) Tourism Precinct project is jointly funded by the Australian Government through the Aboriginal Benefit Account to the Gumatj Corporation, the Northern Territory Government and Developing East Arnhem Limited.
Construction is expected to be complete in August 2025.
Quotes from Chief Executive Officer of Department of Logistics and Infrastructure, Louise McCormick:
"The project will provide improved facilities for local users as well as opportunities to maximise local and Indigenous participation and support regional growth."
"The new infrastructure will be accessible by larger commercial and recreational vessels, such as yachts, pleasure craft, cruise ship tenders and charter vessels, increasing visitation and tourism activity in the area."
Drone footage of the new rock groyne construction is available via this link: here
Video and photo credit: Neal Baulch
