The Dampier Bulk Handling Facility project team recently hosted an inspiring site visit with Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation, welcoming an all-women cohort to the project.

The group of aspiring women in construction visited the site with the shared goal of either entering or continuing careers in construction and port services.

Clough is incredibly grateful to partner with Pilbara Ports supporting Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation on this important initiative. Their ongoing support and commitment to creating real employment pathways for Indigenous women has been instrumental. 

The day began with a visit to Pilbara Ports marine office, where the cohort had the opportunity to meet Harbour Master Mike Minogue, along with several Deputy Harbour Masters. The team provided a detailed and engaging explanation of the many facets of marine traffic management, offering insight into the complexities of overseeing marine operations at the Port of Dampier.

The group was then taken through the Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) Control Room, where the importance of VTS in the safe and efficient management of the Port was demonstrated. 

At the Landside Office, the operations team generously shared their time, explaining the inner workings of port logistics and stevedoring. They spoke passionately about the wide range of career paths available within landslide operations and fielded a host of questions from the group, who were eager to learn.

Next, the cohort visited the Dampier Cargo Wharf, where they observed live operations up close before heading over to the DBHF construction site. There, the group was warmly welcomed by the local team from Globe Construction, who shared insights into the diverse range of opportunities available in construction, highlighting how the industry welcomes women from all backgrounds, with various skill sets, interests, and career goals.

Following this, an Austral team member provided a detailed overview of their scope of work, including marine piling, vessel handling, equipment operation and maintenance, and more. This session offered a great technical snapshot of what it takes to deliver on a complex marine infrastructure project.

The day concluded with a guided site walk, showcasing completed works and upcoming construction activities, and finally a Q&A session with the group who are keen and motivated to take the next steps in their careers.

We look forward to continuing our work together with Pilbara Ports and Ashburton Aboriginal Corporation to delivering meaningful pathways for more Indigenous women in construction.

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About the Project

Clough is delivering the design and construction scope for Pilbara Ports new Dampier Bulk Handling Facility, stage one of the overall Dampier Cargo Wharf Projects. The Port of Dampier is situated in the Pilbara region in the northwest of Western Australia and is predominantly utilised for the export of iron ore, LNG, salt and condensate.