A NEW $1.5-million floating pontoon has opened at Port of Stanley in Tasmania’s north west.
The facility includes an access gangway leading to pontoons supported by steel piles, designed to accommodate four vessels up to 15 metres and 15 tonnes displacement.
Tasmanian minister for infrastructure and transport Michael Ferguson commended TasPorts for funding and building the facility.
“This is a much-needed berthing facility that will improve the safety and amenity of the historic Port of Stanley,” Mr Ferguson said.
“It will also improve access for emergency services in the event of a maritime safety event.
“I also congratulate Marine and Safety Tasmania for its design and planning as well as local Tasmanian business BridgePro for their excellent work.”
TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said the pontoon project was port operator’s largest investment at Port of Stanley since TasPorts’ amalgamation in 2006.
He said TasPorts is committed to the Port of Stanley and its users.
“We do also manage a number of other important facilities in the port,” he said.
“And we continue to work closely with all our stakeholders – business, industry and local government – on the future of those assets.”
Mr Donald said TasPorts is proud of its role in facilitating freight for Tasmania and is “just as proud” of the role it plays at a community level.
“[The] official opening of the recreational pontoon at Stanley is a perfect example of this.”
The construction of the pontoon involved the remediation of about 50 metres of sheet pile wall in Fishermans Dock. The facility features two light towers and a new security camera.
