- Kimberley Marine Support Base floating wharf officially launched
- Facility will deliver jobs and boost Broome's economy
- Private development supported by the Cook Government and Kimberley Ports Authority
The Cook Government has welcomed the official launch of the Kimberley Marine Support Base (KMSB), which will deliver a boost to the region's economy and increase capacity at the Port of Broome.
The facility consists of a floating deck, connected to adjacent leased port land and infrastructure, which will allow ships to berth regardless of the tidal activity.
The new facility is funded by the privately owned KMSB company, who along with the Kimberley Ports Authority (KPA) have entered a suite of long-term commercial agreements for the facility, with KPA to provide stevedoring services for the first five years of operation.
KPA has been actively working with KMSB throughout the project's construction, which has been supported by the Cook Government.
Combined with the in-principle approval of First Point of Entry status for the Port of Broome obtained from the Federal Government last year, this development heralds a new era of growth for the port and the regional business community.
The Cook Government is committed to further enhancing the Port of Broome, with a $500,000 investment in business case development in support of passenger terminal facilities to attract more cruise vessels to the region.
As stated by Ports and Kimberley Minister Stephen Dawson:
"Congratulations to the Kimberley Marine Support Base team for the completion of this facility. The floating wharf will be a game changer for the vessels and cargo visiting the Port of Broome.
"This facility represents a significant milestone in terms of how regional infrastructure can
enhance resilience and open up alternative trading pathways for the region.
"The new capacity that KMSB brings, combined with forthcoming improved First Point of Entry status will lead to substantial growth in trade for the port."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"The construction phase of the Kimberley Marine Support Base delivered substantial local job outcomes, set to continue throughout the facility's operation.
"This facility is set to deliver long-term benefits to the Kimberley and help diversify the region's economy thanks to the increased capacity at the Port of Broome."
