North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has commenced the first phase of a major infrastructure upgrade, as part of the $2.5 million investment in the Port of Hay Point.
The contractor, Wisely, is set to complete the first phase, which will employ up to 25 people during peak construction and see the refurbishment and upgrade of a marine offloading facility at Half Tide Tug Harbour in October 2016.
The second phase of the project will include the upgrade of rock batters at the marine offloading facility and will be delivered in consultation with port customers.
NQBP General Manager Engineering and Development Rochelle Macdonald said that as part of the Queensland Government’s Accelerated Works Program, the Port of Hay Point would benefit from a permanent facility to support the flow of construction and maintenance materials for port customers.
“Infrastructure investments such as the marine offloading facility upgrade are about improving efficiency at our ports, providing sustainable assets for our port customers and supporting the economic development of Queensland and the Mackay region,” Dr Macdonald said.
Wisely Manager Rodney Parfitt welcomed NQBP’s award of the construction contract.
“As a local company of more than 20 years’ standing employing local people, we are proud to be involved with the ongoing development of the Port of Hay Point,” Mr Parfitt said.
The upgrade of the marine offloading facility will also include the refurbishment of crane loadout platforms and pontoons.
A completion date for the second phase is yet to be formalised.
