en.Wedoany.com Reported - Jan De Nul Australia has been awarded a A$50 million dredging contract by Pilbara Ports for the construction of a new bypass channel in Zone 5 at Port Hedland.
Pilbara Ports stated that the project, announced earlier this year as part of the Western Australian state budget, aims to enhance the port's safety, efficiency, and resilience. Port Hedland is one of the world's largest bulk export hubs and a key driver of iron ore exports.
This strategic dredging project will construct a bypass channel, allowing vessels to safely navigate around a steep section of the port's 42-kilometer-long shipping channel. Western Australian Regional Development Minister Stephen Dawson said the Zone 5 bypass channel is an industry-supported solution that helps ensure trade can continue even in the event of unforeseen incidents. He noted that this initiative reinforces Western Australia's reputation as a safe, reliable, and efficient trading partner in global markets.
Every day, some of the world's largest vessels transit the channel at Port Hedland, navigating in convoys within strictly limited tidal windows. The bypass channel will complement existing overtaking lanes and refuge areas to enhance the port's ability to manage maritime risks and maintain safe, continuous operations.
Port activity levels continue to grow throughout the year. The latest data shows that total monthly throughput reached 65.9 million tonnes in April, a 2% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Of this, Port Hedland's throughput for the month reached 47 million tonnes, with iron ore exports totaling 46.3 million tonnes.
Jan De Nul Australia, the Australian subsidiary of its Belgian parent company, has previously been involved in the initial dredging of this 42-kilometer channel at Port Hedland. As part of the broader Channel Risk and Optimization Project (CROP), the company adapted its construction methods to meet environmental conditions and operational requirements, including deploying a loading-mode dredger, supplemented by split hopper barges and a trailing suction hopper dredger equipped with a ripper draghead.
Pilbara Legislative Assembly member Kevin Michel said the investment in the Zone 5 bypass channel and the contract award represent a significant step forward for Port Hedland and the broader Pilbara region, helping to ensure the port continues to operate safely and efficiently for years to come. He praised the close collaboration between the government, Pilbara Ports, and industry to deliver infrastructure that supports the region's ongoing growth.
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