WESTERN Australian ports minister Alannah MacTiernan says an $11.6m infrastructure spend at Geraldton Port will allow for an increase in exports of mineral sands and concentrates.
The state government has announced a $10m investment in Geraldton Port Wharf 4 (strengthening and rail replacement) as well as a $1.58m investment into Geraldton Fishing Boat Harbour.
The announcement comes after the McGowan Government endorsed the Port of Geraldton Master Plan.
The $10m Wharf 4 project is to upgrade a key piece of Geraldton Port infrastructure, paving the way for long-term growth in mineral sands exports.
Wharf 4 is the primary export wharf for mineral sands, talc and concentrates from Geraldton Port, shipping 1.2m tonnes of mineral sands and concentrates in 2018-19.
The original Wharf 4 structure was built in 1965 and plays a role not only in mineral sands exports, but in mooring grain export vessels to neighbouring Wharf 3.
The $10m improvements to Wharf 4 and associated rail are to extend the design service life of the structure by another 25 years and will allow for the continuation and growth of mineral sands and concentrates shipping through Geraldton.
“The McGowan Government is pushing forward its investment in Geraldton Port, building economic capability in the city and securing the long-term future of export industries in the Mid‑West,” Ms MacTiernan said.
“Our substantial investment means mineral sands and concentrates exports from the Mid‑West can grow, providing industry with the confidence to expand or develop new projects in the region.
“These projects also provide a real job boost in Geraldton over the next 12 months as WA continues its COVID-19 economic recovery.”
Ms MacTiernan said the Port Master Plan was an important guide for the Mid-West region and the WA economy.
“Our investment and the Master Plan will help to set the Mid-West up for the next 15 years and continue to stimulate economic activity in the region,” she said.
The government is also investing $1.58m into upgrades at the Geraldton Fishing Boat Harbour, including new walkways, toilets, fuel bowsers and street lighting.
