Erosion beneath Berth 4 at the Port of Burnie has prompted emergency repairs, with TasPorts working to prevent potential disruption to Tasmania’s shipping operations.
The damage, described as “scouring”, was recently detected during routine inspections of the port infrastructure.
Scouring occurs when water movement erodes material beneath a structure, potentially compromising its stability.
While Berth 4 remains in use for now, TasPorts’ Michel de Vos said Berth 5 is being prepared as a backup option when repairs begin.
“Minimising operational disruption during these critical works has been a priority throughout the planning process,” he said.
“At present, Berth 4 remains fully operational, with engineering and prefabrication works well underway.”
“On-site construction is scheduled to commence following final approvals.”
De Vos said extension works that began on the Berth 5 ramp in December are now mostly complete.
Additional modifications to mooring and fendering systems have been identified as necessary before Berth 5 can fully function as a replacement, De Vos said.
The Port of Burnie handles more than five million tonnes of Tasmania’s general freight each year, including about 600 ships and in excess of 330,000 containers.
