The new shiploader for north-west Tasmania's Port of Burnie has taken a huge leap forward, with local design and construction contractor COVA Haywards Pty Ltd having started the fabrication of the shiploader's structural steel work in Launceston.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King and Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart were at the site today to inspect the progress already made.
The project will install a new shiploader, along with an expanded bulk minerals export facility, at the Burnie Port - replacing the existing 50-year-old unit.
This will efficiently allow mineral commodities to be transferred to bulk ships for domestic and overseas export from the port, reducing operational costs and increasing local freight volume capacity.
Fabrication of key shiploader components started in early May this year on the north-west coast. The main steelwork fabrication is now underway at Haywards in Launceston.
The project is expected to support a total of 140 direct and indirect jobs, boosting local employment and the economy.
The new shiploader is expected to be operational in mid-2023.
The Australian Government is fully funding the project with a commitment of $64 million.
Quotes attributable to Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King:
"The new shiploader will be a game-changer for Tasmania's economy, providing the state with a long-term export solution that will allow local products to continue to reach domestic and overseas markets.
"With an average load speed of about 2,000 tonnes per hour - approximately double that of the current unit - productivity at the port will be higher than ever.
"This will have major benefits for local businesses and the communities they support, so I am thrilled to see yet another milestone take place on the project."
Quotes attributable to Senator for Tasmania Anne Urquhart:
"This project is already bringing in local jobs and economic stimulus at a critical time for the state, and I'm excited to be here today to see this in action.
"The new shiploader will underpin our export economy for decades to come.
"Not only will it handle greater volumes at higher speeds, it will also be able to move a range of bulk minerals such as zinc, copper, magnetite, nickel and dry bulk commodities including direct shipping ore, which will provide a welcome boost to our local mining industry.
"This is just another example of how we are delivering vital infrastructure projects right across Tasmania to support the state's long-term regional economic development, ensuring goods can seamlessly make their way to markets and shelves."
