Milestone reached in redevelopment of Macquarie Wharf 6

TasPorts has reached a major milestone in the Macquarie Wharf 6 upgrade, with three shortlisted contractors now developing designs for the major project.
Extra site investigations are underway to better understand the ground conditions before construction begins, helping to reduce future risks and delays.
Macquarie Wharf 6 is the first stage of the broader Macquarie Wharf redevelopment, set to deliver a dedicated Antarctic berth with shore power and upgraded facilities, securing Tasmania’s position as a global gateway to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean.

TasPorts has reached a major milestone in the redevelopment of Macquarie Wharf 6, with three shortlisted contractors now progressing to the Design Development Phase of the project.

The selected participants are:

Hazell Bros Group Pty Ltd and Brady Marine & Civil Pty Ltd (in a joint venture)
McConnell Dowell Constructors (Aust) Pty Ltd
Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd and BridgePro Engineering Pty Ltd (in a joint venture)

Each contractor brings extensive experience in complex marine and civil infrastructure, and will work closely with the TasPorts project team to develop detailed early designs for the wharf upgrade. Their involvement at this stage will help reduce future risks, inform constructability, and shape the final delivery model.

TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said the redevelopment is foundational to Tasmania’s future as the gateway to the Antarctic and Southern Ocean and a driver of global science, trade and tourism.

“This is a once-in-a-generation infrastructure project, and we’re pleased to be working with experienced partners to progress this next critical phase,” Mr Donald said.

“The early involvement of contractors ensures we can address technical challenges up front, especially around geotechnical risks, to deliver a future-ready berth that supports the long-term needs of our maritime economy.”

Macquarie Wharf 6 is being redeveloped to support priority berthing for the Australian Antarctic Division’s RSV Nuyina, along with new shore power infrastructure and upgraded portside facilities.

The project is the first stage of the broader Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment, which will also modernise Macquarie Wharves 4 and 5.

The Design Development Phase commenced in July, with participants receiving a full project package including design requirements, planning documentation, safety and environmental obligations, and the draft construction contract.

Mr Donald said the project highlights TasPorts’ role in future-proofing Tasmania’s port infrastructure.

“The redevelopment of Macquarie Wharf will strengthen our export and cruise capabilities, while supporting Antarctic operations and broader economic growth for the state,” he said.

About the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment

The Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment is a multi-stage infrastructure program to modernise Hobart’s working port, supporting Tasmania’s position as a global gateway to the Antarctic and a hub for international trade, science, and tourism.

The project includes the complete rebuild of Macquarie Wharf 6, the construction of shore power infrastructure, a dedicated Antarctic precinct, a new cruise terminal, and upgrades to wharf facilities and cargo handling capacity across Macquarie Wharves 4, 5 and 6.

The Australian Government has committed $188 million for the redevelopment and ongoing maintenance of Macquarie Wharf 6.

The funding ensures a fit-for-purpose wharf for Australia’s world-class Antarctic icebreaker, the RSV Nuyina, and ensures Tasmania’s role as the gateway to East Antarctica.

Under the funding agreement between the Australian Government and the Tasmanian Government, TasPorts will lead the project delivery of the wharf upgrades.

Once complete, the redevelopment will deliver long-term benefits for Antarctic and Southern Ocean research, commercial shipping, exports and the tourism sector.