MID WEST Ports Authority has awarded the tender for the $10 million Wharf 4 Strengthening and Rail Replacement project to Fortec Australia, with upgrades to begin next month.
Wharf 4 – built in 1965 – is the primary export wharf for mineral sands, talc and concentrates from Geraldton Port. It required significant upgrades to cater for the expected expansion in trade from the region.
The state government allocated $10 million to the project as part of the WA Recovery Plan to provide local economic stimulus while paving the way for future growth at Geraldton Port.
The upgrades are expected to be completed by November this year.
The project will require periodic closure of Wharf 4, with Mid West Ports Authority working closely with port users to minimise disruption to their trade activities.
Western Australia ports minister Alannah MacTiernan said the port is booming, with exports expected to grow by at least 2 million tonnes per year over the next two years.
“Our Wharf 4 upgrades are critical to the economic future of Geraldton and will extend the life of the wharf by another 25 years,” she said.
“This provides long-term certainty to local business and a strong base for further growth in the local resources industry.”
