Pilbara Ports is progressing key infrastructure upgrades at the Port of Ashburton to strengthen operational resilience and maintain safe, sustainable port operations.
The projects include the delivery of a permanent water and fire system for the Ashburton Cargo Wharf and planned sand bypassing works to manage sediment accumulation and maintain natural coastal processes.
Pilbara Ports Chief Executive Officer Samuel McSkimming said the projects represented an important investment in the port’s facilities.
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“We are investing in infrastructure that will support industry, enhance safety and ensure the port remains well-positioned for the future,” Mr McSkimming said.
The Ashburton Foundation Water and Fire Project will establish a sustainable potable water supply and a permanent fire water system for the port by January 2027. The project includes the installation of a seawater desalination plant, expansion of the existing firefighting network and construction of a new fire water tank.
Once complete, the project will significantly strengthen emergency response capability at the Ashburton Cargo Wharf while providing a reliable water source to support port users, cargo operations and future industrial activity.
Pilbara Ports is also progressing plans for sand bypassing works after monitoring undertaken in October 2025 confirmed sediment accumulation west of the Ashburton Cargo Wharf had reached trigger levels under the Port’s Coastal Processes Monitoring and Management Plan.
The works will involve transferring accumulated sand from the western side of the wharf to approved areas on the eastern side, using hydraulic pumping methods, allowing the sand to re-enter the natural coastal system. The project will begin early 2027 under an approved Sand Bypassing Environmental Management Plan.
Mr McSkimming said the project formed an important part of Pilbara Ports environmental management responsibilities.
“Sand bypassing is a well-established coastal management practice that helps maintain natural shoreline processes while protecting port infrastructure and navigational access,” Mr McSkimming said.
“The sand bypassing project will help minimise impacts on sensitive environmental features, including the East Ashburton Delta and Hooley Creek, while supporting the safe and efficient operation of the port.”
Both projects form part of Pilbara Ports ongoing commitment to delivering safe, sustainable and efficient port infrastructure that supports Western Australia’s resource sector and regional economy.