MID WEST Ports Authority has announced the Wharf 4 Strengthening and Rail Replacement Project at Geraldton Port has effectively reached completion.
The major project is one of the largest MWPA has undertaken in recent years.
The construction of the wharf was completed earlier this month and final works are expected to be finalised by the end of March.
The $10 million upgrade improves on the original Wharf 4 deck, constructed in 1964, which showed signs of cracking and substructure deflection towards the end of its design life.
Fortec Australia was awarded the tender for the project in January last year, with construction commencing in March. The berth remained operational for the duration of the project.
After many months of consultation, the final design of the upgraded wharf was chosen to ensure capacity for the future.
“This project is a significant upgrade to our port and one that will see the continuation of service and capacity for many decades ahead,” MWPA acting CEO Damian Tully said.
The design involved replacing the unreinforced topping slab with reinforced concrete, creating a composite and more rigid structure.
A replacement shiploader rail was also incorporated into the project as the existing rail had reached the end of its life.
Around 50,000 hours of work were put into the project with significant involvement from local workforce and contractors.
“Particular thanks is extended to all our customers and suppliers who have worked around a flexible schedule to achieve this upgrade while ensuring the berth remained operational,” Mr Tully said.
Wharf 4 is the primary export wharf for mineral sands, talc, and concrete from Geraldton Port.
