Pilbara Ports has announced that the new integrated Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Centre at the Port of Dampier has officially opened.
Pilbara Ports operates the Dampier VTS Centre, which controls commercial shipping in the West Pilbara, including the ports of Dampier, Ashburton, and Varanus Island.
The VTS Centre aims to will help the region’s long-term growth, including the development of greenfield ports.
The Dampier VTS reportedly coordinated over 4,280 safe vessel visits at Dampier, Ashburton, and Varanus Island ports during the fiscal year 2023-24.
According to Pilbara Ports, the Dampier VTS employs modern sensors, radar, and metocean technology to regulate vessel movements, monitor sea state, and maintain navigational safety.
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David Michael, Australian Minister of Ports, said: “As a geographically isolated State, our economy is highly dependent on high-capacity and efficient ports. The new VTS Centre, alongside continued State Government investment in the Dampier Cargo Wharf projects, will expand marine infrastructure and operational capacity at the Port of Dampier.
“It is fantastic to see Pilbara Ports continuing to meet industry’s growing export needs, as strong economic conditions across the Pilbara increase demand for port services.”
Kevin Michel, Pilbara MLA, stated: “By improving the amenity of the Port of Dampier to match other global ports, we are positioning our region as a competitive player on the international stage.”
In August, Pilbara Ports delivered a total monthly throughput of 65.8 million tonnes (Mt).
