The Western Australia Department of Transport (DoT) has scheduled maintenance dredging operations at the Murchison River Mouth in Kalbarri. The project is set to commence in late April 2024, with completion expected by early August 2024. This essential maintenance ensures uninterrupted access and safety for vessels navigating this crucial channel.
Dredging Schedule and Operations
Dredging activities are planned primarily from Monday to Saturday, occurring between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM. To accommodate community needs and statutory holidays, operations will extend to Sundays and public holidays, with work hours from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. The DoT has carefully planned these times to minimize disruption to the local community while ensuring timely completion of the dredging.
Technical Details of the Dredging Process
The maintenance will be conducted using the 18-meter cutter suction dredge, Mudlark I, which features a 400-meter combination of floating and submerged pipeline. This equipment is specially designed for efficient and effective dredging, capable of handling large volumes of sediment.
Importance of Regular Dredging
Regular maintenance dredging at the Murchison River Mouth is critical to maintaining the navigability of the river’s entrance. Each year, the dredging process removes between 15,000 to 50,000 cubic meters of sediment, preventing accumulation that could obstruct marine traffic and affect water flow. This preventive measure ensures the safety and operational efficiency of the river channel, supporting both local and regional maritime activities.