The Port of Ashburton advances water, fire and sand bypass projects

Pilbara Ports is progressing two infrastructure projects at the Port of Ashburton in Western Australia, the first set of planned works including a permanent water and fire system for Ashburton Cargo Wharf.

The Ashburton Foundation Water and Fire Project is scheduled for completion by January 2027 and will establish a permanent potable water supply and fire water system at the port.

The project includes the installation of a seawater desalination plant, expansion of the existing firefighting network and construction of a new fire water tank.

The port hopes the infrastructure will strengthen emergency response while providing a dependable water supply for port users and future cargo operations.

“We are investing in infrastructure that will support industry, enhance safety and ensure the port remains well-positioned for the future,” said Pilbara Ports CEO Samuel McSkimming.

Looking ahead, Pilbara Ports is also progressing plans for sand bypassing works, scheduled to begin in early 2027, as part of its approach to sustainable port operations.

Monitoring in October 2025 showed that sediment accumulation west of Ashburton Cargo Wharf had reached trigger level, in accordance with the Port’s Coastal Processes Monitoring and Management Plan.

The plan will follow an approved Sand Bypassing Environmental Management Plan, with sand being moved from the west to eastern sides of the wharf. This is aimed to be completed using hydraulic pumping.

The project, according to McSkimming holds both significant operational and environmental importance:

“”Sand bypassing is a well-established coastal management practice that helps maintain natural shoreline processes while protecting port infrastructure and navigational access.”