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Nib Wall Project: Fortifying Mackay Marina for the Future
Port Binnli is thrilled to announce the completion of the highly anticipated nib wall at Mackay Marina, a project designed to enhance safety and resilience for vessels moored in our beautiful harbour. The nib wall now stands as a protective shield against challenging northerly winds and severe weather, ensuring a safer haven for all.
The $10.5 million project, funded in part by the Australian Government, began as a visionary resilience initiative to protect Mackay Marina's commercial and recreational vessels from potential storm and cyclone damage. After years of meticulous planning and close collaboration with Federal, State, and Local governments, North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP), and multiple engineering consultants, we are proud to present this milestone in marina safety.
Impressive Project Facts
The nib wall's construction journey is nothing short of impressive, showcasing the scale and expertise that went into this landmark project:
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Massive Rock Wall: Over 84,000 tonnes of rock — equivalent to the weight of 8 Eiffel Towers — were used to construct the wall. The sheer volume and scale of the materials reflect the wall’s strength and durability.
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Efficient Delivery: Over 12,000 truckloads of rock were transported from the local Mt Bassett Quarry, just 3 kilometres from the site, averaging 60 truckloads a day! This local sourcing and efficient transport ensured a rapid build schedule while supporting the local economy.
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Remarkable Size and Strength: The nib wall stretches over 128 metres in length and 35 metres in width, making it longer and wider than most Australian Navy warships. The largest rocks, each weighing over 7 tonnes — about the size of a Landcruiser — were carefully positioned on the seaward side to maximise resilience.
Enhanced Access and Amenities
With the project now completed, we have reinstated full public access to the Southern Breakwater. As of Friday, November 3rd, vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists are welcome to enjoy uninterrupted access 24/7, allowing visitors and locals to once again experience the scenic waterfront.
Throughout construction, Mackay Marina Management took every measure to minimise disruption, maintaining a vibrant, accessible marina experience for boaters, shoppers, and diners alike. We thank our community, local businesses, and boat owners for their cooperation and patience, as this milestone was truly a community effort.
What the Nib Wall Means for Mackay Marina
The completed nib wall provides more than just an impressive visual; it represents a significant upgrade in marina protection and resilience. By creating a barrier against strong waves, especially those generated by northerly winds and cyclonic activity, the wall ensures safer mooring options for commercial and recreational vessels alike.
"This project is a testament to our commitment to provide a world-class facility that prioritises safety and resilience,” shared Tom Hall-Brown, Project Director. “We’re extremely grateful for the community’s patience during construction, and we’re proud of the enhanced safety this wall now brings to our marina.”
Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox echoed the sentiment, noting the wall’s crucial role in preventing damage during future storms. "Cyclone Debbie showed us the need for stronger protective measures. This facility now safeguards vessels and their owners' investments, helping reduce insurance risks and repair costs," he said.
Looking to the Future
With the nib wall now fully operational, Mackay Marina is positioned as a premier, cyclone-resilient destination for local, interstate, and international boaters alike. This project underscores our commitment to provide top-tier safety and service, enhancing both the experience and peace of mind for our guests.
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