Proactive engagement through Burnie TACC

An independent Technical Advisory Consultative Committee (TACC) for dredging activities at the Port of Burnie has been established and met for the first time on 16 May 2023.

TasPorts Chief Operating Officer, Stephen Casey said the Burnie TACC provides a forum for engagement, consultation and collaboration on the planning, environmental monitoring and practice standards of all future dredging programs in the port.

“We used the inaugural meeting to agree on terms of reference and provide a high-level summary of planned dredging works at the Burnie Port,” he said.

Mr Casey said dredging activities were regularly undertaken in ports around the world to ensure the ongoing, safe movement of vessels.

“TasPorts is committed to ensuring all dredging activities at our ports are undertaken in a manner that considers the impact on the community and the environment,“ he said.

“The development of the TACC allows us to achieve this.

“It also demonstrates our commitment to Ports Australia’s Environmental Code of Practice for Dredging and Dredge Material Management.”

Membership of the Burnie TACC so far comprises the Burnie Yacht Club, Burnie City Council, Cradle Coast Authority, the Burnie Surf Life Saving Club, the Tasmanian Seafood Industry Council and relevant government departments.

Dredging is a regulated activity, that cannot be carried out unless the activities comply with relevant local, state and federal legislation.

Various environmental and planning laws, and policies apply to dredging, to mitigate disturbance to marine habitat and organisms, and manage dredge material disposal activities.

If you would like to get involved with the TACC or learn more about current TasPorts dredging programs, please contact the TACC via email at: tacc@tasports.com.au