A major project for the Shire of Derby/West Kimberley is the $2.35 million upgrade of the Derby Wharf.
“With work expected to be completed by December this year, it will be a fantastic lift for the town,” said Shire President, Councillor Elsia Archer.
The Shire joined forces with two local iron ore mining ventures to attract Federal funding of $870,000 under the Sustainable Regions Program. The Cockatoo Island mine employs 80 people, while the Koolan Island mine, which is expected to be in full production by July this year, will create another 150 jobs.
With the tidal changes, a barge must be used to service both these mines and a number of Aboriginal communities. Works planned under the upgrade will provide a new launch area for this barge as well as cater for recreational fishing and tourist operators vessels. Currently the barge uses a less than ideal rocky section that can only be accessed at high tide.
A floating concrete breakwater will be constructed to protect the new launch ramp from a strong cross current. This will greatly improve safety for launching and retrieving vessels.
The wharf is also a popular community focal point and tourist attraction, providing an excellent vantage point to experience our beautiful sunsets over King Sound, as well as Derby’s famous 11 metre tides. There are only two other places in the world that have larger tide variations than those experienced at Derby.
Work will also be carried on the wharf itself which requires replacement of some timber affected by wood borers.
The State Government is providing $1 million for the project with the Shire making up the remainder of $470,000.
The floating breakwater is a first for Western Australia. With the size of the tides, and the area being both cyclone and flood prone, the breakwater has been designed to rise and fall with sea levels. Working with the University of Western Australia, computer modelling has been used to test the design for the breakwater and tidal flow attenuator. It has passed all tests in relation to reducing wave action and the sideward currents prevalent at the wharf and final design is now being undertaken in readiness for tendering and construction.
