Barge Loading Pre-Feasibility Study in the Carnarvon Region  

The Gascoyne region is strategically placed to support new mineral, resource and renewable energy projects.  A significant barrier identified is the lack of access to reliable, cost-effective marine infrastructure to facilitate the movement of goods into and out of the region. 

In response to growing industry demand for port infrastructure close to Carnarvon, the Gascoyne Development Commission (GDC) has secured state government funding of $300,000 to undertake a pre-feasibility study into supply chain capability.    

GDC are working with industry to explore opportunities for a barge loading facility to service the region.  A pre-feasibility study will examine the potential for future private sector demand and financial and economic viability, progressing long term plans for commercial marine infrastructure in Carnarvon. If the facility proves viable the study will pave the way for future private investment. 

The specific project objectives include: 

• identify the market requirements;  
• identify suitable sites for a facility;  
• identify high level costs for a series of options for the development of a facility; 
• pathways for delivery; 
• regulatory approvals pathways; 

• stakeholder engagement; 
• economic and financial analysis.  

Following a competitive tender process, ACIL Allen has been selected as the consultant to undertake industry engagement and economic analysis.  It is anticipated the findings to be released  during the first half of 2023.  

 

 Examples of barge loading facilities - Photos Courtesy Transhipment Services Australia

The Gascoyne Development Commission previously investigated the viability of developing a deep-water port North of Carnarvon. The study was completed in March 2010 by AECOM.

The report provided a basis for initial appraisal of possible port options for the Carnarvon region.  It was concluded that significant minerals export projects would be required for any port option to be viable. The report also advised that to proceed to the next phase of evaluation and assessment for preferred sites it was necessary to collect critical surveys, geotechnical and Metocean data.  At the time of the report the most important missing data that could significantly impact on concepts and cost estimates, was survey and geotechnical data, including seabed survey to more accurately evaluate dredging quantities.

Bejaling Port- Final Report