Transport and Infrastructure Minister and Bega MP Andrew Constance and Lands Minister Paul Toole announced the contract on Monday, October 30.

“This fantastic project will create opportunities for local businesses once complete, including more than 80 new ongoing jobs in the tourism, hospitality and stevedoring sectors,” Mr Constance said.

“Over the next 18 months, specialist marine contractor Waterway Constructions will extend the existing wharf by some 110 metres and install five berthing dolphins and three onshore bollards on the existing wharf.

“Upgrades will also be made to existing services including lighting, power, potable water and emergency fire-fighting water and navigation aids will also be installed.”

Minister for Lands Paul Toole said the project would provide business and employment opportunities throughout the life of the marine structures contract.

“The community can expect to see marine plant and equipment including crane barges, material barges, piling hammers, support vessels, scuba diving crews, drill rigs and temporary works on site from March 2018,” Mr Toole said.

“More than 2000 tonnes of structural steel and over 1000 tonnes of pre-cast concrete structural elements will be pre-fabricated offsite and an additional 2000 tonnes of insitu concrete will be sourced from local suppliers.

“This latest announcement demonstrates that we’re making great progress, with all construction contracts now being awarded, all statutory planning approvals in place and dredging nearing completion.”

Heron Construction Company Ltd was awarded the dredging contract, which is expected to be completed early next year.

Sydney-based Waterway Constructions describes itself as a specialist maritime contractor with the capacity to undertake construction, maintenance and refurbishment of maritime structures throughout Australia.

Recent projects include the construction of a 265m bulk liquids wharf in Newcastle on the Hunter River.

The Department of Industry - Crown Lands is responsible for delivering the Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension project, which is scheduled for completion in 2019.

The project is jointly funded by the NSW Government ($32 million), Australian Government ($10 million), and the Bega Valley Shire Council ($2 million).