The Government of Western Australia has announced a major upgrade for Exmouth Boat Harbor, offering significant economic benefits for the Gascoyne region and expanding its capacity as a major supply and service base for the oil and gas sector.
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman two days ago announced $20 million in Royalties for Regions funds to extend the service wharf by constructing a heavy lift facility and adding moorings at the harbor.
The Minister said the upgraded facilities would create about 140 new jobs within existing operations.
“ As the largest harbour in the region, Exmouth is well placed to be a service and support center for the resources sector in the north ,” Mr Redman said. “ This acknowledges Exmouth’s important role in supporting the growing maritime industry in the resource-rich Pilbara region.”
The announcement follows the Department of Transport’s completion of a $4.2 million pen upgrade at the harbor, which added 25 high-quality cyclone-rated pens for commercial and recreational use.
Transport Minister Dean Nalder said the Government would continue to work with the Gascoyne Development Commission; Shire of Exmouth; the tourism, resources and fishing sectors; and other stakeholders to finalize the detailed design for the expansion.
“ By extending the service wharf and building a heavy lift facility, we should see better access to the wharf for loading/unloading, water and fuel ,” Mr Nalder said. “ It will also diversify operations and employment with opportunities on top of the tourism and fishing industries.”
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October 13, 2014