FAQs
Have questions? Explore our FAQs to learn more about the project’s impact on passenger and freight services
Image provided courtesy of Brand Architects
General FAQs
Have questions about the new Spirit Quay Devonport project? Find answers to common queries about the project, its benefits, and what it means for our passengers and freight services.
Who is building Spirit of Tasmania's Terminal 3/Spirit Quay Devonport?
Spirit of Tasmania contracted a partnership known as Spirit Partners, comprising both national and Tasmanian companies, to relocate its Devonport base of operations to Spirit Quay Devonport. This partnership includes BMD Constructions, which successfully delivered Spirit of Tasmania’s Geelong Port facility. BMD is joined by Fitzgerald Constructions Australia (who also worked with BMD on the Geelong project) and local Tasmanian companies BridgePro Engineering, Gradco, and Vos Constructions.
How prominent will the tasmanian workforce be during project construction?
Thanks to partnerships with three Tasmanian firms, BMD is creating significant local employment opportunities for this project. More than 50% of the work will be delivered by local partners, who have committed to employing additional apprentices and tradespeople specifically for the Spirit Quay development.
How big is the new Devonport site?
The new Spirit Quay site spans seven hectares, almost doubling the size of the current lease. Located on previously undeveloped land between SeaRoad Shipping and the Mersey Yacht Club, it will provide expanded operational areas designed to serve both passenger and freight customers.
When will Terminal 3/Spirit Quay Devonport be ready for operation?
Spirit Quay Devonport is expected to be operational by early 2027. Site establishment works were completed in August 2024, with site earthworks begun in November 2024. Construction of marine foundation works will follow, and landside structures are will form the final stage of construction.
Will the new vessels be at full capacity when they commence operating at Terminal 3/Spirit Quay Devonport?
Yes, Spirit of Tasmania IV and V will be operating at full capacity when they commence service at Spirit Quay Devonport. The Geelong Port already has infrastructure in place to facilitate the larger ships. The new vessels feature increased passenger capacity, from 1,400 to 1,800 passengers, with an increase in cabins from 222 to 301. Vehicle lanes for both passengers and freight will expand by almost 60%, and, unlike the current ships, all vehicle lanes will offer extra height to accommodate caravans and campervans.
Marine Piling Works FAQs
Marine piling involves installing large steel piles into the riverbed to support new berthing infrastructure at Devonport Wharf’s Berth 3. This is necessary to accommodate the larger Spirit of Tasmania vessels.
When will marine piling works take place?
From the mid-April we’ll be installing 27 large steel piles into the Mersey riverbed to support the new ship berth. Our aim is to finish by 6pm on Saturdays, with no piling planned on Sundays or public holidays, where possible.
However, due to unforeseen conditions such as weather, soil conditions, or the need for continuous piling, work may occasionally extend beyond 6pm on Saturdays or take place on Sundays, both during the day and at night.
Why do piling works need to happen 24/7?
The continuous process of Down-The-Hole Hammer drilling requires each pile installation to be completed without interruption. Stopping the drilling before the completion of the drill for each pile could result in the pile becoming stuck in bedrock.
Will there be noise disruptions?
Noise disruptions will be closely monitored with real-time noise monitoring devices at sensitive locations. Where needed, noise barriers and acoustic treatments will be used to reduce impacts.
How will noise disruptions be managed?
We understand the concerns about noise. Noise and vibration monitors will operate 24/7, and if noise levels exceed limits, additional noise barriers or enclosures will be deployed to reduce impact.
What noise monitoring will be in place?
Continuous noise and vibration monitoring will occur at key locations. Data will be reviewed daily, and any noise exceedances will be addressed promptly.
What happens if noise exceeds acceptable levels?
If noise levels exceed limits, additional mitigation measures will be implemented, such as:
- Acoustic enclosures
- Extra noise barriers
- Adjusting work schedules, where feasible
How will disruptions be minimised?
The project team will avoid late-week drilling to minimise weekend noise and will use quieter equipment wherever possible.
