Published on Tuesday, 22 March 2022 at 2:56:34 PM
The Shire of Derby/West Kimberley would like to advise residents and all users of the wharf that an upcoming Jetty closure slated for the coming dry season has been brought forward to 6am TODAY (22 March), on the advice of the Kimberley Port Authority (KPA).
The repairs to three bays of the jetty are needed due to strong, salty sea gusts causing rust and corrosion to the infrastructure in the first three sections of the northern abutment.
The work has been brought forward due to recent severe weather events which have hastened the disrepair of the affected areas, and necessitated the immediate commencement of repair works. Vehicles will not be allowed to cross the affected areas during this time.
The remainder of the wharf is in good condition and can remain open for use. Pedestrian access onto the jetty is also permitted until the full suite of works commence.
The requirement for closure is based on a visual assessment of the steel deck, particularly between grids 1-2, where changes and deformations of the steel structure over the last several days seem to have occurred. Closure will ensure that the safety of jetty users is suitably protected.
“We know how much the people of Derby love their jetty and that means we need to look after it for the next generation – it's a really special place for locals,” said Derby/West Kimberley Shire CEO Amanda Dexter.
“We sincerely apologise for the extended closure, but in the long run these repairs will make the jetty more resilient to the harsh sea and weather conditions of the coast.”
The planned work will take approximately six weeks to complete. During this time there will be no access to the northern abutment apart from those employed on the project.
A physical gap will be created on the jetty during the repairs where by the damaged sections are replaced in whole, making any public access an absolute no-go.
It is hoped the jetty will be fully re-opened by mid-June or earlier dependant on when KPA begin the refurbishment, said Dexter.
“That’s the plan and we’ll do our best to work with KPA to meet that timeline – everyone wants to get back there for the spectacular sunsets and fishing.”
It is projected the upcoming repairs of the northern abutment along with ongoing maintenance will ensure the northern abutment will be in good condition for an extended period of time, meaning Derby residents can continue to enjoy the jetty without interruption.
Background: The current Derby wharf - an unusual and memorable horseshoe shape - was built in the mid to late 60’s and upgraded to service the early pastoralists of the region. Located five kilometres from the town centre, the jetty allows people to witness Derby’s extraordinary 12m tide variation – the biggest tides in the southern hemisphere. The jetty is open free of charge to residents and visitors alike, and is a popular spot for watching the sunset, fishing or enjoying the cool sea breezes in the midst of the hot season.
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