Program Overview
Birdon delivers Parks Victoria’s long-term Local Ports Maintenance Dredging Program across Port Phillip and Western Port.
The program ensures safe navigational access to key local ports, rivers and creeks including Queenscliff, Patterson River, Mordialloc Creek and Werribee River. Birdon has delivered these works continuously since 2000 and remains the prime dredging contractor under the current 10-year contract (2021–2030).
Quick Facts
- Client
Parks Victoria
- Location
Port Phillip & Western Port, Victoria
- Lifecycle Stage
Operate, Monitor & Maintain
- Contract Period
2000–2030
- Vessel
Cutter Suction Dredge Ballina and support craft Willie Tell, Bella
Objectives
- Maintain safe navigation and access to local ports and waterways under Parks Victoria’s stewardship
- Support local economies, tourism and recreational boating through reliable marine access
- Deliver environmental outcomes by reusing clean dredged sand for coastal renourishment
- Minimise disruption to local communities and stakeholders during dredging campaigns
Challenges
- Shallow and dynamic waterways requiring flexible equipment and frequent mobilisation
- Managing dredge spoil to avoid ecological impact while supporting beach renourishment
- Maintaining access around public piers, jetties and recreational zones
- Meeting strict environmental controls under the Marine and Coastal Act and EPA Victoria
- Operating in variable weather and sedimentation conditions with minimal downtime
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon’s approach integrates proven marine engineering, adaptive scheduling and environmental stewardship.
Using it’s cutter suction dredge Ballina and specialized support fleet, Birdon executes both programmed and reactive dredging across multiple locations assisting the State Government and other key stakeholders where required.
Outcomes & Impact
This program supports multiple port sites, enhancing navigational safety for Commercial, recreational and emergency vessels.
The program has delivered visible coastal renourishment benefits, particularly at Hampton and Portarlington beaches, while maintaining safe and reliable access to key waterways. Birdon’s consistent performance since 2000 has strengthened long-term client trust, reflected in successive contract renewals. All works have been completed safely and in full compliance with environmental and heritage conditions.
Testimonial
“Birdon is our go-to source for dredging expertise. Their professional team consistently provides high-quality service and innovative solutions for complex tasks we can’t handle ourselves. They excel in delivering technical information and finding creative solutions for unique challenges. Highly recommended.”
Simon Marangio
Port Services Officer, Parks Victoria
Capabilities in Action
- Marine systems engineering, including design, modification and operation of cutter suction dredge Ballina for confined and variable environments
- Sub-system integration of onshore plant including loaders, excavators and discharge pipeline systems for sediment management and beach profiling
- Operational delivery under Birdon’s ISO-certified HSEQ Management System (ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001)
- Environmental management through implementation of a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan covering consents, risk controls and spill response
- Stakeholder coordination with Parks Victoria, Maritime Safety Victoria and local councils to manage public access and Notices to Mariners
