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.
Pilbara Ports has implemented a comprehensive emergency response plan to effectively manage emergencies within port limits.
The emergency response plan:
In the event of an oil spill, Pilbara Ports is required to provide emergency response planning and capabilities to protect land and marine resources surrounding the Port of Varanus Island.
Oil pollution response, equipment deployment training and exercise programs are held frequently throughout the year.
Cyclone events may be experienced within the west Pilbara region during cyclone season, which runs from November to April.
In the event of a cyclone impacting the area, regular briefings are posted to Pilbara Ports website to notify ships of potential disruptions, port closures and re-opening times.
Masters should familiarise themselves with Pilbara Ports Cyclone Response Plan and ensure every precaution is taken to minimise impacts should a cyclone eventuate
If you would like to add or remove your name from Pilbara Ports West cyclone advice mailing list, select one of the buttons below:
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Port communications (24/7) P: 08 9159 6556 M: 0428 888 800
Police and emergency services P: 000
VHF channel: 79