William Scott
Pilbara Ports has awarded two key contracts for the Lumsden Point expansion, which is set to expand trade opportunities in Port Hedland.
The first contract is to Acciona Construction Australia Pty Ltd for the design and construction of two land-backed wharves.
The two new wharves will facilitate the export of critical battery metals, including lithium and copper concentrates, as well as enable the import of renewable energy infrastructure such as wind turbines and blades.
The second contract is to Konecranes for the supply and construction of two state-of-the-art mobile harbour cranes.
The harbour cranes will be integral to the efficient operation of Lumsden Point, enabling the handling of heavy and oversized materials.
Pilbara Ports has also recently launched a Local Business Register to help connect Pilbara-based businesses with companies tendering for upcoming work at Lumsden Point.
The Federal Government is investing $565 million in common-user port upgrades in the Pilbara, $450 million of which will enable the development of new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point.
This is in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which is contributing $96.6 million to the project.
Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister, Catherine King, said, “The Australian Government is continuing to partner with the Western Australian Government to ensure this vital infrastructure is built.
“Our government’s investment in common-user port upgrades in the Pilbara will help unlock trade and investment opportunities and support a future made in Australia.
“Investing in this great infrastructure will open doors and opportunities for businesses and communities, specifically in Port Hedland and the north-west coast of WA.”
Western Australian Ports Minister, David Michael, said, “The wharves and harbour cranes are a critical component of Lumsden Point, and awarding these key contracts represents a significant milestone in the project’s advancement.
“The progress made on causeway construction, intersection upgrades and dredging, and land reclamation at Lumsden Point is already delivering economic growth and regional employment opportunities.
“The State Government is committed to supporting the creation of jobs, growing and diversifying the economy, and attracting investment.”
Western Australian Senator, Glenn Sterle, said, “I’m pleased to see this project progressing, which will position not only Port Hedland, but northern Australia to take advantage of the economic opportunities this project will provide as demand grows locally and overseas for clean energy sources.
“The Australian Government’s investment in the Lumsden Point expansion will drive both employment and economic growth while delivering lasting infrastructure that will benefit the region well into the future.”
Pilbara MLA, Kevin Michel, said, “Lumsden Point will solidify the Pilbara’s role as a driving force in the clean energy transition, unlocking new trade pathways and creating hundreds of local jobs that will directly benefit our communities.
“The development will also enhance direct shipping services to the Pilbara, improving supply chain efficiency and strengthening the region’s position as a critical hub for global trade.
“The new Local Business Register is an excellent initiative that will ensure Pilbara businesses benefit from this major investment and contribute to the growth and development of our region.”
Further information about the Lumsden Point project is available at www.pilbaraports.com.au
