Pilbara Ports is continuing to conduct condition inspections of its facilities at the Port of Dampier and the Port of Ashburton following Severe Tropical Cyclone Narelle (34U).
Port of Dampier The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however significant damage was identified across Pilbara Ports general cargo precinct, and all general cargo import operations remain suspended. The Dampier Cargo Wharf and adjacent floating deck facility remain inoperable due to structural damage. The Bulk Liquids Berth is operable, and fuel imports are not affected.
Further engineering assessments, including underwater inspections and marine surveys will continue over the next few days. These assessments will inform when safe general cargo import operations can resume.
Port of Ashburton The port reopened on 28 March 2026 however Pilbara Ports Ashburton Cargo Wharf remains closed. Engineering teams are now able to access the port, and inspections will be carried out over the next few days.
Port of Varanus Island The Port of Varanus Island re-opened on 28 March 2026. Its operations are not impacted.
Pilbara Ports is committed to effecting repairs and restoring capability as safely and efficiently as possible across the ports of Dampier and Ashburton. It will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Refer to Media Statement Update 1 - Saturday 28 March 2026 for more detail.
As per the Port Authorities Act 1999 (WA), Pilbara Ports is required to establish a Community Consultation Committee for each port under its control. The purpose of these committees is to facilitate information sharing and consultation between the port authority and the local community.
The Port of Dampier Community Consultation Committee (DCCC) was established in June 2015. Meetings are held three times a year.
Membership of the DCCC includes representation from the City of Karratha, KDCCI, Dampier Community Association, Karratha Community Association, Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation, Dampier Seafarers, King Bay Game Fishing Club, Nickol Bay Fishing Club, Karratha Visitors Centre and local community members.
P: 08 9173 9074 E: community@pilbaraports.com.au