NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) will soon begin maintenance dredging at the Port of Weipa.
Dredge vessel TSHD Brisbane will work within the port’s south channel and inner harbour between 5 April and 30 April 2018 inclusive.
NQBP Acting Chief Executive Officer Dr Rochelle Macdonald said maintenance dredging works are an integral part of the port’s operations.
“In the same way that we maintain roads and rail lines for freight transport, we need to look after our port infrastructure to keep trade flowing,” Dr Macdonald said.
“NQBP manages the annual maintenance dredging program at the Port of Weipa - a program that has run for more than 30 years.
“Regular maintenance dredging ensures safe, navigable shipping depths for our port users.
“It’s undertaken by port authorities around the world and is critical for maintaining port infrastructure.
“While the maintenance dredging works are being completed, we urge local and visiting boaties to take extra care when on the water.
“The Brisbane, with support vessels Norfolk and Pacific Conquest, have restricted manoeuvring capability. So we urge people on the water to pay close attention to displayed warning flags and lights.”
Strict environmental controls and management measures will be implemented throughout the campaign to minimise the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment.
Learn more about why maintenance dredging is important.
Source: NQBP