Queensland-based Pacific Marine Group has completed construction on Port Mackay’s new $8.5 million tug berth facility.
The facility is the largest in a series of recent, significant investments totalling $17 million aiming to boost Port Mackay for current and future trade.
The port’s new tug berth facility includes a floating pontoon and gangway which can berth up to two tugs. The berths can also accommodate bigger and more powerful tugs. Two pilot boat berths have also been included.
The dedicated tug berth facility is located inside the secure port area and will cater for the existing tug fleet and provides flexibility for future growth.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister, Mark Bailey, said the multi-million dollar investment had supported 60 good jobs in regional Queensland.
“Construction also utilised local and regional contractors to ensure the economic dividends of this multi-million-dollar project are returned to regional communities,” Mr Bailey said.
“Having the new tug berth facilities on site will position the port to be able to take advantage of the new and diversified trade opportunities in the region, including rail and renewables,” Mr Bailey said.
PMG Operations Manager, Christo Wessels, said the team was proud of the successful delivery of the project.
“Our team did a brilliant job considering there were a number of challenges along the way including a period of COVID shut downs which placed a strain on material supply chains and availability of qualified tradespeople,” Mr Wessels said.
Works also continue to progress on the Port’s $4 million Wharf 5 upgrades with Queensland-based contractor V2R Projects replacing the western access deck after 35 years of service.
Local jobs are also a strong feature of this project with Mackay, Rockhampon and Townsville-based companies being involved in the project through delivery of steel fabrication, scaffolding, craneage and concrete precasting.
