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McConnell Dowell wins contract to build new HMAS Coonawarra wharf NT

Written by Monica Gameng | Jun 9, 2020 2:00:00 PM

McConnell Dowell has been subcontracted to build a new outer wharf structure at Darwin’s HMAS Coonawarra as part of a broader upgrade project being undertaken by Laing O’Rourke under the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Program (LDPRP). 

For this project, McConnell Dowell will be delivering a new 250-metre long wharf and two approach jetties. Upon completion, the new facility will be able to provide additional berthing and support services for Royal Australian Navy vessels. 

“Having constructed numerous marine facilities throughout northern Queensland and Western Australia for Australia’s leading mining companies and being currently involved in the upgrade of ADF facilities in the Pacific, it is great to be bringing this experience and know-how to the top end to support our defence forces in the Northern Territory,” McConnell Dowell Australian Managing Director Jim Firth said. 

Source: Department of Defence

McConnell Dowell is expecting to complete works by the second half of 2022. 

The Larrakeyah Barracks Redevelopment and Facilities to Support Naval Operations in the North will be delivered through two work packages. 

The Larrakeyah Barracks Redevelopment will include: 

  • Delivery of NORFORCE Facilities 
  • Upgrading electrical services 
  • Construction of a new portable water infrastructure 
  • Upgrading firefighting, sewerage, stormwater and ICT infrastructures 
  • Refurbishing the landing craft tank ramp 
  • Construction of a shared user facility 
  • Upgrading the base entry precinct 
  • Delivery of a junior sailors’ car park 

Source: Department of Defence

On the other hand, the Facilities to support Naval Operations in the North will include the construction of a new wharf; new hardstand and associated building; and a ready use fuel facility. 

All upgrades and construction works are due to be completed by 2023. 

The Larrakeyah Barracks and HMAS Coonawarra are both located within the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct, approximately two kilometres west of the Darwin CBD in the Northern Territory. 

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Source: McConnell Dowell; Australian Government Department of Defence (1, 2); Laing O’Rourke