Duratec’s Newcastle team has delivered a standout marine infrastructure asset, completing the $3m installation of the brand new, safety critical Navigational Aid Tower 52 that will guide commercial vessels safely through the Port of Newcastle for years to come.
Installed by Duratec in late 2025 over the period of four months, the Nav Aid 52 is a steel coated, solar powered navigational aid tower that replaces the former Throsby PEL tower. The new structure, delivered three weeks ahead of schedule, will ensure that the Port of Newcastle continues to safely manage its continuous operations and showcases Duratec’s commitment to long term asset performance.
Watch the time-lapse of the installation below:
Port of Newcastle is one of Australia’s busiest regional ports, with more than 2,000 ship visits – or 4,600 ship movements – per year. Duratec’s installation of the new navigational aid tower and its role in protecting this critical supply chain interface underscores its commitment to safeguarding vital marine assets and enabling regional economic growth.
Engaged to design and deliver the project end to end, Duratec brought extensive marine engineering expertise to the project and engineered innovative approaches to overcome soil condition challenges.
MJ van der Vyver, Operations Manager at Duratec, explained:
“Our initial site investigations suggested we’d be driving piles into reinforced concrete rubble from a previous demolished wharf. Once we began piling, it became clear the ground resistance was far lower than anticipated. To maintain safety and precision, we collaborated with our designers and subcontractors and adapted our piling installation method on the spot.”
That adaptability led to the adoption of a “flying hammer” for pile driving. Crane suspended rather than rig mounted, this method enabled the team to safely and accurately install the final pile positioned furthest offshore.
Following installation, the team conducted a visual survey by flying out to sea to board a cargo ship. From the bridge of the ship the functionality of the sectors and visibility of the tower’s two highly precise Sabik PEL 4 LED lights could be verified.
MJ added: “The survey was a fantastic moment for the team; boarding the vessel by helicopter and seeing the Nav Aid 52 operating exactly as intended was incredibly rewarding.”
Simon Turner, Maintenance Manager for Port of Newcastle, commented:
“Ensuring the safety of vessels navigating our harbour is fundamental to Port of Newcastle’s operations and future growth. This new navigational aid enhances the reliability of our marine network and keeps trade moving safely and efficiently through the port. We appreciate Duratec’s role in delivering this important project to a high standard.”
Duratec’s Newcastle team has demonstrated their expertise, agility and engineering excellence that underpins a growing marine capability portfolio. The success of this project reinforces the business’s role as a trusted partner in improving safety, enabling trade and strengthening infrastructure for coastal communities across Australia.
