The Territory Labor Government knows that developing and upgrading infrastructure is critically important to grow the Territory’s economy.
Two tenders have been released to upgrade key maritime infrastructure in the Top End – supporting over 350 jobs.
The Territory Labor Government will deliver new marine facilities in Mandorah, with the construction tender released today, following extensive community and stakeholder consultation.
Another tender has been released to upgrade the Frances Bay Mooring Basin Lock and extend the life of the lock by up to 30 years.
Mandorah Marine Facility
The new Mandorah marine facility will improve and maintain public transport services for residents of and visitors to Mandorah, Wagait Beach and Belyuen.
Work on the new facility is planned to commence in the second half of 2022 and support up to 270 jobs.
The new facilities will be safer for ferry users and will improve disability access to board and disembark the ferry through the construction of a gangway and floating pontoon. Breakwaters will also be constructed to provide protection from wind, waves and swells, creating a calm water marina area.
The project includes a more weather resistant dual berthing facility that can safely accommodate ferry vessels operating between Darwin, Mandorah and the Tiwi Islands, as well as future expansion.
The elements of the facility delivered in stage 1 will be operational by the end of 2024.
The existing Mandorah Jetty will be maintained to ensure ferry access is maintained during construction. It will also ensure recreational fishing can continue until a purpose built fishing platform is built in the second stage of the project.
An existing building near the new marine facilities will be renovated and repurposed to provide a ferry terminal offering shelter from the elements and public toilets facilities.
The Territory Government will work with Traditional Owner groups to provide opportunities for local employment in the construction of the facilities, and to ensure sites of cultural significance remain protected.
Frances Bay Mooring Lock
This project will deliver new lock doors, modernise the mechanical and electrical systems. These upgrades will help ensure the long-term sustainability of Frances Bay Mooring Basin, with the works supporting potentially 100 direct and indirect jobs during construction.
Mostly used for commercial vessels, the Frances Bay Mooring Basin is a key economic enabler for the Territory with 91 berths available for vessels.
Fisheries, the seafood industry, pearlers and commercial operators utilise the basin. By investing in a new lock, the Territory Government is providing long-term certainty for existing businesses and greater confidence for new investment opportunities.
Design work will take place in the second quarter of 2022 and work is likely to start on site before the end of 2022.
The upgrade work will be staged to manage impacts on basin and lock users, particularly at the start and ends of the various fishing seasons.
To view both tenders visit tendersonline.nt.gov.au.
Quotes from the Minister for Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics Eva Lawler:
“Creating a pipeline of infrastructure works supports local jobs and local business.
“The Territory Labor Government’s top priority is jobs and the upgrades to Mandorah Jetty will support more than 270 jobs. We promised to improve facilities at Mandorah Jetty – and that is exactly what we are doing.
“The jetty is ageing and a new facility will provide improved safety for residents and will bring more tourists into the area. One of the key parts of the new facility is to specifically address disability access requirements, making it safer for ferry users and improving access for people with disabilities.
“Frances Bay has long been a safe mooring lock for Territory vessels, particularly during our Wet Season.
“The much needed upgrade of the Frances Bay Mooring Lock provides quality infrastructure long term into the future for our commercial fishing and seafood industry and other seafaring industries.”
Quotes from the Member for Daly, Dheran Young:
“We have listened to community feedback about the jetty ageing and a new Mandorah marine facility will provide improved safety, fishing and tourism in the area, and create jobs.
“The design of the new facility will reflect the needs of Territorians and provide safe, essential transport infrastructure to service Mandorah, Wagait Beach and Belyuen communities.”
