The channel safety dredging program for the largest regional port in Victoria, the Geelong Dredging Project 2014 has been finished, according to the Victorian Regional Channels Authority (VRCA).
Dredging was conducted in the vicinity of No 4 Corio Quay North in an area off the corner of the Hopetoun and City Channels commonly referred to as the City Bend.
NZ-based Heron Construction Company performed the work by using its backhoe dredger Machiavelli. Two split-hopper barges, maneuvered by tugs, assisted the Machiavelli on a 24/7 bases during the project.
The Geelong Dredging Project 2014 involved:
Dredging at City Bend, the right angle turn at the junction of Hopetoun and Corio channels that ships navigate on their way to and from Geelong’s port. About 130,000 cubic meters of mainly sand, silt and soft clay was removed from four small areas on the inside of the bend to widen the turn and aid safe navigation of ships.
Dredging of about 65,000 cubic meters of soft material at Corio Quay North No 4 Berth to boost its productivity and operational efficiency. The berth and its approach is deepened by 1.3 meters to bring it into line with the main shipping channels, maintained depth of 12.3 meters. This will remove constraints on ships currently unable to load down to the maximum draught that can navigate the channels.
The $9 million Geelong Dredging Program was funded by VRCA and will ensure the Port of Geelong, Victoria’s premier bulk cargo port, keeps its competitive edge and strong focus on safe navigation.
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Dredging Today Staff