Statement – Tasports, 22 March 2021
Positioning the Port of Hobart as the international gateway to the Southern Ocean is the primary objective of a major multi-million-dollar redevelopment for Macquarie Wharfs proposed by TasPorts.
The initiative will actively support world-class Antarctic exploration and scientific research whilst also enabling growth in well-established key trade areas over a 30-year horizon.
The recent inclusion of the redevelopment on Infrastructure Australia’s Priority List 2021 signals its national significance, supporting TasPorts commitment to actively future-proof the State’s ports for the benefit of all Tasmanians.
TasPorts Chief Operating Officer Stephen Casey said the critical component of this initiative is the development of a 720m continuous quay line at Macquarie Wharf 4, 5 and 6.
“The Macquarie Wharfs were originally built between 1969 and 1975, and whilst routine maintenance and remediation has been undertaken, a significant capital upgrade is now required to enable future growth,” Mr Casey said.
The Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment will also facilitate solutions for a variety of industries including bulk log exports, container exports, bulk fuel imports, and commercial fishing, as well as the tourism sector.
“The delivery of this initiative will see three multi-user berths constructed at one of the deepest sheltered ports in the southern hemisphere. It is also expected to generate up to 1,000 job-years during the construction phase, directly benefiting Tasmanian and Australian contractors.
“Our next step is to further engage with industry and to develop a compelling business case, creating value for both our customers and the State of Tasmania,” Mr Casey said.
Download TasPorts Project Brief on the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Initiative here.
