Pearl Marine Engineering (PME) has been named the preferred proponent to deliver a ship-lift facility at East Arm that will position Darwin as the marine services hub for northern Australia. The Northern Territory Government will contribute up to $100 million towards the project, and will now enter into a negotiation period with PME. 

PME was one of five shortlisted proponents invited to submit binding proposals in March of this year, wtih the ship lift given major project status in December 2015. 

The submission from PME was considered by Nothern Territory Chief Minister Adam Giles to demonstrate a strong commitment to both the local marine maintenance industry as well as the long-term success of the project. 

“Pearl Marine Engineering’s application identified a strong commitment to local jobs and industry participation, which will strengthen the Territory economy.

“The NT Government is committed to maximising opportunities for Territory businesses to participate in ship maintenance now and into the future.”

The marine industries in NT is expected to support up to 4,500 full time jobs and add $3.5 billion into the local economy, driving local industry and employing more Territorians. 

“The ship lift will enhance Darwin’s position as the marine service centre for Defence, Australian Border Force, the oil and gas industry and commercial shipping," said Chief Minister Giles. 

PME, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Paspaley Group, will be known as 'Northern Ship Support Pty Ltd' during the ship-lift project delivery. 

The NT Government contribution of up to $100 million is dependent on the Commonwealth Government committing to service its naval and border protection fleet in Darwin.

PME will relocate operations from Frances Bay when the new facility is commissioned.

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Source: NT Government Newsroom