Dredging work under way on Lumsden Point Project in Port Hedland

Work is under way at Lumsden Point in the Port Hedland harbour where around one million cubic metres of material will be removed over the next eight weeks. Dredging will deepen the access channel, swing basin, and berth pockets, ensuring that vessels can safely and efficiently dock at the new Lumsden Point facility. Extensive preparation has already been completed as the JFJ De Nul cutter suction dredge arrived in Port Hedland earlier this week to begin the main operation. Environmental monitoring is in place throughout the dredging program to minimise any impact on surrounding habitats. The dredged material will be placed in a designated reclamation area at Lumsden Point, in line with an approved Environmental Management Plan. Once complete, Lumsden Point will support the export of battery metals like lithium and copper concentrates, the import of renewable energy infrastructure such as wind turbines, and help expand direct shipping services to the Pilbara region. The Australian Government is investing $565 million in upgrades to the Pilbara’s ports, with $450 million earmarked for new multi-user facilities and berths at Lumsden Point. This is being done in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which is contributing $96.6 million to the project. Major industry players including BHP, Fortescue, Roy Hill, and the Hancock Prospecting Pty Ltd/Mineral Resources Ltd Joint Venture have committed $65 million to cover dredging costs. Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said the Australian Government is delivering the $565 million in common user port upgrades to help unlock trade and investment opportunities in the Pilbara and to support a future made in Australia. “This project is all about investment in quality infrastructure, which encourages and supports opportunities for local businesses and communities,” she said. “We will continue to partner with the Western Australian Government to ensure that this vital infrastructure progresses.” The contract for the critical dredging and land reclamation work was awarded earlier this year to Jan De Nul (Australia) Pty Ltd. WA Minister for Ports David Michael said it’s “fantastic” to see the progress being made at Lumsden Point. “The commencement of the dredging and reclamation works represents a significant milestone in the project’s advancement which will help diversify trade in the Pilbara,” he said. “Upon completion, Lumsden Point is expected to boost Australia’s gross domestic product by $2.1 billion per annum. “It is expected to save 3.6 million tonnes of emissions by 2055 by supporting direct shipping to the Pilbara and providing a pathway for renewable energy infrastructure.”