A NEW integrated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Centre at the Port of Dampier has been officially opened providing advanced sensors, radar and metocean equipment to control vessel movements, monitor sea state, and ensure navigational safety.
The integrated centre will expand marine infrastructure and operational capacity across the West Pilbara to support the region’s long-term expansion, including the development of greenfield ports.
The Port of Dampier handled an annual throughput in 2023-24 of 172.6 million tonnes.
Operated by Pilbara Ports, the Dampier VTS Centre oversees commercial shipping for the West Pilbara, including the ports of Dampier, Ashburton and Varanus Island and coordinated more than 4,280 safe vessel visits across those ports in the 2023-24 financial year.
In addition to supporting maritime activity, the VTS Centre plays a critical role in emergency response efforts across the West Pilbara region, working alongside emergency services to assist with marine search and rescue efforts.
In opening the centre ports minister David Michael said because the State was geographically isolated, its economy is highly dependent on high-capacity and efficient ports.
“The new VTS Centre, alongside continued state government investment in the Dampier Cargo Wharf projects, will expand marine infrastructure and operational capacity at the Port of Dampier,” Mr Michael said.
“It is fantastic to see Pilbara Ports continuing to meet industry’s growing export needs, as strong economic conditions across the Pilbara increase demand for port services.”
