The final pile casing for the new Spirit of Tasmania berth has been finished, as construction continues on the significantly delayed project.
Transport Minister Kerry Vincent said installing the 27th pile casing this week was the “most complex and technically challenging” part of building the foundations for the new gantry at Devonport.
“This work is critical as the concrete structures … will eventually support the 740-tonne steel gantry and loading ramps,” he said.
The milestone comes as the project grapples with major cost blowouts and delays, which have pushed the launch of the new ferries back to late 2026 or early 2027.
Originally costed at $90 million, the berth infrastructure budget has now ballooned to $493 million, driven by contract disputes and design changes.
The first new vessel, Spirit of Tasmania IV, is currently in Hobart after spending several months berthed in Scotland while Devonport’s upgrades were underway.
Vincent said 60% of bridge deck beams have been installed on the fixed loading ramp, with 60% of site utilities also finished.
Marine works are progressing too, with crews now installing concrete and steel reinforcement for the 27 piles.
Despite the delays, TT-Line CEO Chris Carbone said fabrication of the gantry remains on schedule.
“Spirit of Tasmania has been actively working with TasPorts, the harbour master and other critical stakeholders to ensure that when the gantry arrives at Devonport, the offloading and assembly can occur in the safest and most efficient way possible,” he said.
The state government is aiming to complete the berth by October 2026.
For now, Tasmania’s existing ferries will remain in service for at least another year while construction continues.
