iscover
The Australian government has celebrated the official opening of the new Kuru Wharf at HMAS Coonawarra in the Northern Territory.
The $210 million Kuru Wharf was delivered under the broader $600 million Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Program, and provides additional berthing capacity for naval vessels, including major surface combatants and submarines to enhance the nation’s maritime capability.
The opening ceremony was attended by Matt Thistlethwaite – Assistant Minister for Defence, Assistant Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, Assistant Minister for the Republic and the Federal Member for Kingsford Smith – and Larrakia Nation Elder Auntie Mary at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin on 24 July.
“These critical upgrades to Kuru Wharf will allow for the future growth of the Larrakeyah Defence Precinct to ensure it is equipped to meet our strategic circumstances,” Assistant Minister Thistlethwaite said.
“This program of works reinforces the 2024 National Defence Strategy, which outlines critical investment into improving the ADF’s ability to operate from Australia’s northern bases.”
The Larrakeyah Defence Precinct Redevelopment Program is also delivering other upgrades, including improvements to base engineering services such as electrical, communications, sewerage, stormwater, potable water and fire services, added accommodation, car parking and additional capacity for maritime fuel storage.
Earlier this year, Leeuwin Class survey ship HMAS Melville conducted the first official berthing alongside the new Kuru Wharf at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin in the Northern Territory.
