The new 2.2-kilometer rock wall is a key part of the $232 million Port of Townsville Channel Upgrade, which will help allow larger ships access to the port. The dredging project has been estimated for completion in late 2023 and it’s expected that this would take two years as well. This upgrade works by widening 14.9 kilometers shipping channel along with placing all material into a reclamation area bounded by rocks on one side.
During peak construction, there were 200 trucks passing through the site gates every day to deliver over 20,000 tonnes of rock. This required a lot of traffic management and deliveries would often be delayed due to heavy congestion during rush hour.
A view from the sea of the Port of Townsville.
Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts Minister Paul Fletcher said that this project was a key part of Townsville’s City Deal.
Queensland Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey, said the project is expected to benefit Queensland’s COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan, which aims at unlocking capacity for commercial vessels up to 300 meters long.
Queensland Resources Minister and State Member for Townsville, Scott Stewart, stated that the Channel Upgrade would offer job opportunities in the region during North Queensland’s economic recovery.
The Port of Townsville’s chief infrastructure officer, Marissa Wise said that local rock suppliers provided 900,000 tonnes of rocks for construction. The 10-metre high wall required a lot more expertise than your average construction and the builders had to consult with specialists in order to get it right.
The Channel Upgrade project is the first stage of a multi-phase, 30 year Port Expansion Project that makes it one of Townsville’s largest infrastructure projects ever.