TasPorts has completed its largest environmental remediation program at the Mersey Slipway in Devonport, clearing the way for the site to become one of the largest slipways and working yards for the tug, fishing and aquaculture fleets in southern Australia.
Posted
16 September 2026
TasPorts has completed its largest environmental remediation program at the Mersey Slipway in Devonport, clearing the way for the site to become one of the largest slipways and working yards for the tug, fishing and aquaculture fleets in southern Australia.
Over the last three years, TasPorts has invested more than $1.3 million to remediate legacy contamination at the Mersey Slipway site, addressing more than 2,000 tonnes of contaminated material across landside areas and the tidal zone.
The project is Tasmania's first known large-scale marine sediment remediation and beneficial reuse project, with more than 1,000 tonnes of contaminated material excavated, treated and reused onsite to create a new reclaim area.
This reclaim area is protected and separated from the marine environment by a rock revetment (protective wall), constructed in partnership with the site tenant and future slipway operator, BridgePro Engineering.
The Environment Protection Authority has since issued a Remediation Notice Completion Certificate, enabling BridgePro Engineering to now complete the next stage of redevelopment works before reopening the facility in the first quarter of 2027.
TasPorts Chief Executive Officer Captain Allan Gray said the completion of the remediation works takes the project one step closer to restoring a strategically important facility for Tasmania's maritime sector.
"This project has transformed a site affected by legacy contamination into one that is ready for its next chapter,” Captain Gray said.
"Since 2023, TasPorts has invested in a significant remediation program, addressing contamination both on land and within the tidal zone, while also upgrading critical infrastructure at the site.
“By integrating remediation with an infrastructure solution, TasPorts has helped establish the foundation for the long-term operation and future expansion of the Mersey Slipway, supporting local vessel operators, the fishing industry and the broader maritime community for years to come."
Following a public Expression of Interest process, TasPorts entered into a Lease and Development Agreement with BridgePro Engineering to operate the site including both the existing slipway site and adjacent land, creating an expanded footprint for future growth in slipway operations.
The agreement ensures that the ongoing operation of the slipway will meet strict environmental compliance and best industry practice into the future.
BridgePro Engineering Managing Director Aaron Brimfield said the remediation works had created a strong platform for the company's plans for the site.
“TasPorts’ remediation works have created an important foundation for the future of the Mersey Slipway, and BridgePro is now focused on building on that work to deliver lasting benefits for the community,” Mr Brimfield said.
“Our primary focus is on delivering a safe, sustainable and fit-for-purpose facility that supports vessel operators, local industry and the long-term future of marine services in the region.”
“We know there is a strong demand for local slipway services and BridgePro has aspirations to expand the facility’s capabilities so more vessel owners and operators can access the maintenance and repair services they need, closer to home,” he said.
"Our vision is to see the Mersey Slipway become the largest Australian slipway south of Brisbane, with a 700tonne mobile boat hoist, three enclosed blasting and painting bays and heavy hardstand."
Tasmanian Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Kerry Vincent said the project demonstrated the importance of investing in infrastructure which supports regional industry and jobs.
"The Mersey Slipway has long played an important role supporting Tasmania's maritime industries and coastal communities.
"Completing this remediation program is a significant achievement and creates the conditions needed for the site's future redevelopment and operation.
"This work helps secure the long-term future of an important maritime asset and supports the return of essential slipway services to northern Tasmania."
Left to right: TasPorts Head of Commercial Leasing Ben Sully, BridgePro Engineering Managing Director Aaron Brimfield, and TasPorts CEO Captain Allan Gray.