Works on $121m marina to begin

Major earthworks on Port Hedland’s $121 million Spoilbank Marina project will begin in a matter of weeks after the state government announced Queensland-based civil engineering company MGN Civil as the preferred tenderer.

The $10 million earthworks package will form part of Stage 2 of the project, which includes the construction of the marina basin footprint, site perimeter fencing and creating ground levels. 

The company, which was chosen based on its prior experience delivering marina projects, are expected to source up to 75 per cent of their plant hire requirements from Aboriginal businesses and purchase almost 80 per cent of their goods and services within the Pilbara region.

Works to establish access roads to the site are expected to be completed in early February, with the tender for stage 2b of the project, including dredging and reclamation works, is now open.

The tender for breakwaters and revetments is expected to open by next week.

Premier Mark McGowan said the state government was focused on supporting the delivery of projects that would provide a boost to the local economy through the use of local workers and services.

The Spoilbank Marina development will feature a four-lane boat ramp, 21 boat-pen marina, publicly accessible breakwaters, and trailer parking for up to 200 vehicles, as well as public recreation and event space.

The construction of the marina, which is being spearheaded by the Pilbara Ports Authority, is expected to create up to 200 jobs and be completed by the end of 2022.