Maintenance dredging at the Port of Weipa is expected to begin in the following days, the North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation Ltd (NQBP) said in its latest release.
The trailing suction hopper dredger Brisbane will work within the port’s south channel and inner harbor between 17 May and 14 June 2017 inclusive, according to the announcement.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer, Steve Lewis , said that the dredging works are an integral part of the port’s operations.
“NQBP manages the annual maintenance dredging program at the Port of Weipa, a program which has run for more than 30 years,” Mr Lewis said.
“Regular maintenance dredging is required to ensure that safe, navigable shipping depths are maintained for our port users such as Rio Tinto.
“While the maintenance dredging works are being completed we ask that local and visiting boaties take extra care when on the water during this time.
“The Brisbane, as well as support vessels Norfolk and Pacific Conquest, have restricted maneuvering capability so we ask people on the water to pay close attention to displayed warning flags and lights,” Mr Lewis said.
Strict environmental controls and management measures will be implemented throughout the campaign to minimize the risk of any potential impacts on the marine environment, NQBP said.
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