TasPorts has awarded the design and construct contract to redevelop Macquarie Wharf 6 in Hobart to Hazell Brady Joint Venture, marking a major milestone in the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Project.
The joint venture brings together Hazell Bros Group and Brady Marine and Civil and will deliver the first stage of the broader Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment, underpinned by a funding agreement between the Australian and Tasmanian governments announced in October 2024.
The project is also supported by long-term commercial arrangements with the Australian Antarctic Division, with TasPorts responsible for the delivery and ongoing operation of the port infrastructure.
Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the redevelopment is nationally significant for Australia’s Antarctic program.
“The Albanese Government’s $188 million investment in the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Project will deliver world-class infrastructure to support Australia’s Antarctic operations and provide a long-term home for RSV Nuyina,” Minister Watt said.
“This project strengthens Australia’s leadership in Antarctic science and ensures our operations are supported by modern, reliable port infrastructure in Hobart.”
The works will include demolition of the existing wharf, construction of a new wharf structure, provision of shore power for RSV Nuyina, and upgrades to supporting port infrastructure and services. The new facilities are being designed to meet the operational requirements of Australia’s Antarctic program while also supporting trade and cruise activity.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said awarding the contract to a Tasmanian-based joint venture demonstrates confidence in local capability.
“It is a strong vote of confidence in local capability that a Tasmanian-based joint venture has been awarded this contract,” Premier Rockliff said.
“Hazell Brady has the experience to deliver complex marine works, and this project will create jobs and lasting economic benefits for Tasmania.”
TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said the appointment of Hazell Brady reflects the organisation’s focus on proven experience in live port environments.
“Hazell Brady has demonstrated its ability to deliver complex marine infrastructure in live port environments,” Mr Donald said.
“That experience gives us confidence in the delivery of Macquarie Wharf 6.”
Donald said the contract award marks the transition from planning into delivery.
“With a delivery partner now appointed, we are moving into the next phase of building infrastructure that will support Antarctic operations, trade and cruise activity in Hobart for decades to come,” he said.
TasPorts received strong market interest during procurement, with six expressions of interest submitted and three proponents progressing through a competitive design development and tender process.
Site mobilisation is expected to commence in the new year, with Macquarie Wharf 6 on track for practical completion prior to August 2028. Future stages of the broader redevelopment will include upgrades to Macquarie Wharves 4 and 5, expanding Tasmania’s export and cruise capacity and reinforcing Hobart’s role as Australia’s gateway to East Antarctica.