Construction begins on new Mandorah Marine Facilities project

Construction is now underway on the $63 million Mandorah Marine Facilities following the appointment of SMC Marine in November last year. 

This project is part of the Northern Territory Labor Government’s more than $600 million pipeline of marine infrastructure works to be carried out in the next two years. 

The new marine facilities will help improve and maintain public transport services for both residents and visitors to Mandorah, Wagait Beach and Belyuen. 

The first stage of the Mandorah Marine Facilities project alone is anticipated to create 110 local jobs. 

“My Government is providing working opportunities for Territorians. Over 110 Territorians will be working on the Mandorah Marine Facilities project. 

“This project is great news for the residents of the Cox Peninsula and visitors – it’s fantastic to be able to announce works have commenced to make sure the new facility is completed as soon as possible,” Chief Minister Eva Lawler said. 

The new marine facilities will include a new boat ramp, toilet facilities, car park upgrades and an improved experience for ferry users. Importantly, these new facilities will provide better access for people with disabilities. 

Works that are already underway include site preparation and stockpiling quarry materials to enable the beginning of staged construction on the project alongside the construction of the southern breakwater. 

Overall, the Mandorah Marine Facilities project will deliver two breakwater structures, enhanced disability access, a re-designed and upgraded car park, a new terminal building and a new boat ramp – which will all provide a calmer and safer ferry berthing facility. 

Construction on the facilities will be staged to enable additional dry season activities and program for the contractor to commence site works. 

While construction is being carried out, the existing Mandorah Jetty will remain open to provide continued ferry services to residents and visitors. 

“It is great to see the upgrades to our marine facilities at Mandorah moving forward, this progress is the culmination of years of consultation with the communities, and the facilities are in line with community expectations,” Member for Daly Dheran Young said. 

Project layout (source: Investment Territory)

Stage 1 of the project will include: 

• Two breakwater structures constructed to provide protection from sea swells and wave action 
• Access improvements for people with a disability through a gangway and floating pontoon, and a lift which can carry people who need mobility assistance as well as wheelchairs and prams 
• Modifications to the car park layout to add car/trailer parking and additional bays for the disabled 
• Upgrade of existing building for new ferry terminal 
• New dual lane boat ramp to be delivered in stage 1 and/or 2 

Meanwhile, Stage 2 will include: 

• A fishing platform built on the main breakwater (northern breakwater), including a pedestrian walkway from the land 
• Extension of the access road to reach the pedestrian walkway and additional car parking, including added car parking for ferry passengers and bays for the disabled as demand increases and warrants it 

Depending on consolidation time and progress, the project's second stage is expected to be delivered about five years after Stage 1's completion. 

Source: Northern Territory Government Newsroom; Investment Territory; Quarry Magazine