Australia: Work Set to Begin on Port Geographe

Work will commence next month on the $28.15million reconfiguration of groynes at Port Geographe in the South-West to address serious seagrass accumulation and coastal management problems, after a major contract for part of the work was awarded.

Transport Minister Troy Buswell today announced WA Limestone & Italia Stone Group Joint Venture as the successful tenderers for the $13.3million breakwater and seawall construction component of the project.

“Today is a huge milestone for this long-awaited project in the South-West,” Mr Buswell said.

“The local community has worked tirelessly towards these changes and I am pleased to announce there will be earthworks starting next month, which includes the modification of the shape and length of the western breakwater, removal of pocket beach groynes, construction of a new seawall and realignment of the foreshore to Wonnerup.”

WA Limestone & Italia Stone Group Joint Venture has experience in major coastal engineering projects and is currently working with the Department of Transport to construct the new Augusta Boat Harbour.

“The two projects will benefit from each other as some of the rock material required at Port Geographe will be sourced from the Augusta site, therefore reducing costs,” the Minister said.

Extensive research, investigation, engineering and modelling has been undertaken to provide the blueprint for the significant structural changes at Port Geographe.

Mr Buswell said the changes would deliver substantial lifestyle benefits to the current and future residents of Port Geographe and give the wider community improved amenity to beaches in the area.

“The structural changes will also improve the viability of the stalled development,” he said.

The annual removal of seagrass wrack from the western beach will be incorporated into the reconfiguration work program.

[mappress]

Press Release, June 28, 2013