Construction on the Pacific Marine Base will kick off next month, bringing a new industry to the Port of Bundaberg and more local jobs.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt has welcomed the commencement of Stage 1 of the project and congratulated Pacific Tug for its continued commitment to the region.

“This project received $6 million from the Building Better Regions Fund a number of years ago, but unfortunately there were a number of delays and setbacks,” Mr Pitt said.

“These have now been overcome and work is about to get underway on Stage 1 of the Pacific Marine Base, which is fantastic news.

“Works will include a hard stand to support heavy industry activities, a roll-on, roll-off ramp and a commercial vessel wharf for the temporary berth of vessels at the site.

“The $15 million project is expected to create more than 70 full time equivalent construction jobs and has a target of 110 full time ongoing positions. 

“The Marine Base will address a gap in Australia’s marine service industry, by creating a hub where maintenance can be carried out, as well as a cargo barge facility suitable for intrastate and Pacific Island trade.

“Once the multi-use conveyor is built – which received $10 million through the Hinkler Regional Deal – I hope even more opportunities open up at the Port of Bundaberg.”

Pacific Tug CEO Chris Peters said it was an exciting time for the region, with the Marine Base delivering new jobs and skills for the region.

“We have been committed to this project and the region for more than five years now, and despite the delays, we are ready to see the Marine Base come to fruition,” Mr Peters said.

“The Federal Government funding kick-started the project for Pacific Tug and we are thankful for the continued support of Federal Member Keith Pitt.

“We’re using local contractors and businesses, although it’s a booming time for the construction industry, and we hope to see more jobs as Stage 2 progresses in the future.”

Pacific Tug have worked in and around the Bundaberg region for more than 50 years and there are a number of advantages that Bundaberg offers, including its natural deep-water port and being located outside the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Pacific Tug is a Queensland-based family-owned business which specialises in providing high-end commercial vessel support services for Australian and international marine operations. The business was established in 1965 by the first-generation Peters Family and continues to be headquartered in Queensland (Brisbane).

Pacific Tug established a permanent presence at the Port of Bundaberg in 2013 providing the Harbour Towage service for visiting ships.