Significant milestones reached on the development of Lumsden Point in Port Hedland

The Lumsden Point project in the Port of Port Hedland has reached a significant milestone with the awarding of two major work contracts. 

Pilbara Ports has awarded the first major contract to Jan De Nul (Australia) Pty Ltd for dredging and land reclamation works. 

“This represents another key milestone in the development of the Lumsden Point project, which will play a crucial role in the Pilbara’s economy in future. 

“As well as generating an immediate benefit by creating additional jobs and business activity during construction, Lumsden Point will ultimately help diversify the Pilbara’s economy as we enter a new energy era,” Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel said. 

This contract will involve the creation of a new access channel in the port to enable vessels to safely berth at Lumsden Point along with a swing basin and berth pockets that can accommodate non-tidally restricted vessels. 

Jan De Nul mobilised to the project site in May 2024 to begin preparations for dredging, which is anticipated to commence in September of this year. 

The second major contract has been awarded to MGN Civil Pty Ltd for the construction of the causeway that will connect the new wharf to the proposed logistics hub area. Works started in April. 

Moreover, construction of seawalls was completed in March, marking a crucial milestone in the delivery of the Lumsden Point project – as the seawalls paved the way for dredging and subsequent construction stages to begin. 

“The Pilbara is the economic powerhouse of the nation, and the Lumsden Point project will ensure it remains that way well into the future. 

“This vital infrastructure will facilitate trade growth at the port and position Port Hedland at the forefront of future green industries. 

“It’s fantastic to see the progress being made at Lumsden Point. 

“The completion of the seawalls and recent award of the dredging and land reclamation and causeway construction contracts represent significant milestones in the project’s advancement which will drive economic growth and regional employment opportunities,” WA Minister for Ports David Michael said. 

The Australian Government is investing $565 million to support the delivery of common user port upgrades in the Pilbara, including $450 million to enable the development at Lumsden Point. Meanwhile, the Western Australian Government is contributing $96.6 million towards the project. 

The Lumsden Point project will deliver a new multi-user facility and logistics hub. It involves dredging channel access and turning basins, building two new multi-user berths and a central access road and service corridor connecting to Great Northern Highway. 

“This is the next great development in the upgrade of port facilities across the Pilbara. 

“The Australian Government is delivering $565 million in common user port upgrades in the Pilbara to help unlock trade and investment opportunities and support a future made in Australia. 

“This project is all about investment in good infrastructure that opens doors and opportunities for businesses and communities,” Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said. 

In addition to supporting the growth of direct shipping services in the Pilbara, this important development will facilitate the export of battery metals such as lithium and copper concentrates as well as the import of renewable energy infrastructure including wind turbines and blades. 

Infrastructure Australia has identified growing the capacity of Pilbara Ports as a national infrastructure priority. 

“The Australian Government’s investment in the Lumsden Point expansion helps position Northern Australia to take advantage of the economic opportunities this project will provide as demand grows locally and overseas for clean energy sources. 

“This project drives real short-term employment and economic boost while delivering lasting infrastructure that will continue to benefit the region well into the future,” Senator for Western Australia Glenn Sterle said. 

In April, Mineral Resources and Pilbara Minerals have each signed a commitment agreement as the first customers for the up-and-coming Lumsden Point facility. 

The signing of the agreements enables Pilbara Ports to progress securing tenure with Pilbara Minerals and the joint venture between Mineral Resources and Albemarle to allow these organisations to begin developing their new facilities in the Port of Port Hedland. 

“It’s fantastic to see the first customers secured, a crucial step in the overall project. 

“The Cook Government continues to invest in infrastructure that fuels future prosperity and supports regional jobs growth,” Minister Michael said. 

“These agreements help underpin the feasibility and importance of the Lumsden Point facility. 

“They are also great news for the ongoing economic development and diversification of Port Hedland and the broader Pilbara region,” Mr Michel said. 

Source: Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government; Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Pilbara Ports (1, 2)