The State Government has approved $35 million funding for the upgrade of Geraldton Port's Berth 5 to handle some of the expected increase in iron ore exports.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the upgrade to Berth 5 would see an increase in iron ore throughput capacity to approximately 10 million tonnes per annum.
"In 2004 - after a massive upgrade - iron ore started moving through the port for the first time in 30 years at two million tonnes annually," Ms MacTiernan said.
"Now, in 2006, there are seven iron ore projects being promoted across the Mid-West - most of which will be exporting within the next two years and all of which have identified Geraldton as their preferred export point."
Ms MacTiernan said the new dedicated berth would also take pressure off Berth 4, where iron ore and other products such as concentrates, mineral sands and garnet were currently being loaded.
While the upgrade will be welcomed by iron ore producers in the region, they are looking at much bigger infrastructure projects including the development of a new port at Oakajee north of Geraldton to accomodate expected growth in exports.
Geraldton MLA Shane Hill said the latest funding package was a major boost for the region's export potential.
"This investment will give the region's growing resources sector the confidence to push ahead with new projects," Mr Hill said.
"This ultimately means a stronger local economy and more jobs and opportunities for our community."
The upgrade package includes:
- a new shiploader at Berth 5, with a design capacity of 5,000 tonnes per hour;
- new interlinking conveyors for Berths 4 and 5;
- associated electrical upgrades; and
- additional marine works at Berths 5 and 6.
Tenders for the various project components will be issued in January 2006, and the project is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2007.
