The Department of Transport (DoT) has outlined plans for an upcoming maintenance dredging project at the Exmouth Boat Harbour (EBH), targeted to commence in 2024. This initiative is vital for maintaining the harbour’s accessibility and ensuring safe passage for both commercial and leisure vessels.
Dredging Operations and Logistics
The focus of the dredging efforts will be the harbour’s entrance channel, where accumulated sediment will be removed and then transported to Town Beach. A cutter suction dredge will facilitate the extraction of material, which will be pumped through a pipeline to the designated Town Beach Disposal Site.
Importance of Periodic Maintenance
Regular maintenance dredging is critical for keeping the harbour at navigable depths. The scheduled dredging at EBH will help prevent potential navigational hazards caused by sediment buildup, thus ensuring a safe and efficient harbor for daily operations.
Project Schedule and Hours of Operation
The maintenance dredging project is scheduled to occur from late April or early May through July 2024. Operations are planned to run from Monday to Sunday, between the hours of 7 AM and 7 PM. This extensive coverage will help expedite the project while minimizing disruption to harbour activities.
Enhancing Safety and Supporting Local Ecosystems
By conducting this essential maintenance, the DoT not only upholds the operational standards of Exmouth Boat Harbour but also contributes positively to the local environment. The relocation of dredged materials to Town Beach aids in beach nourishment, promoting natural habitat stability and enhancing the coastal landscape for community enjoyment.