Construction of the new Spirit of Tasmania terminal at East Devonport’s Berth 3 is on track for an October launch, with the fourth of seven sections of a 700-tonne gantry now installed.
Infrastructure and Transport Minister Kerry Vincent visited the site on today to announce the milestone, describing it as “about as exciting it gets without opening and having a ship sitting here”.
“The fourth of seven sections of the 700-tonne gantry has been installed, marking an important milestone for this significant gateway project,” Vincent said.
He said the main terminal building, stevedoring building and landscaping work were all progressing well, with local contractor Vos Construction and Joinery building the terminal using locally sourced timber.
Tom Wootton, TT Line’s general manager of retail and hospitality, said the progress on site was matched by work happening behind the scenes.
“This level of progress is also being mirrored behind the scenes that Tasmanians can’t see as we get operationally ready to launch the two new vessels at the end of October as well,” Wootton said.
Nick Remman, who manages port operations at the current terminal and will oversee the new one, said there was strong excitement in the Devonport community and among staff.
“From a staff point of view, we have a very dedicated, motivated team who are really excited about moving here,” Remman said.
Vincent also provided an update on Tasmania’s fuel situation, saying the state had more than 100 days of unleaded fuel supply and 58 days of diesel either in stock or in transit.
Increase cost of fuel and the new 15% fuel surcharge applied to ferry bookings in recent months has contributed to a downturn in ticket sales, though Vincent said the company hadn’t experienced significant pushback from customers.
Wootten confirmed bookings had been affected but said it was consistent with trends across the tourism industry.
“We have seen a downturn since it began,” Wootten said, adding the company was reviewing the surcharge at least weekly.
Vincent said the berth construction remained on time.
Asked whether TT Line would need further financial support in next month’s state budget after receiving a $75 million injection in November, Vincent wouldn’t give a direct answer.
“We will always support TT Line to be a strong contributor to the Tasmanian economy,” he said.
The broader berth project is expected to be completed in October, with the two new Spirit of Tasmania vessels set to begin sailing shortly after.
