text: **•**
  A slipway initially capable of receiving vessels up to 2,700 tonnes capacity will handle 
  
  most of the 60 vessels currently working in the region, a considerable number, but one 
  
  which will rise over coming years. First class engineering facilities have been planned 
  
  and highly experienced management recruited. Alternative slipways offering 
  
  comparable capacity are only to be found in Darwin or Fremantle, a sea journey of 
  
  approximately 1000 miles from this operational region. Australia has emerged as a 
  
  centre of excellence with respect to vessel repair work, the Dampier facility will both 
  
  benefit from and protect that valuable reputation. 
  
  **•**
  Rehabilitated land for buildings and storage will finally extend over 17 hectares. The 
  
  major oilfield services company Halliburton, have been attracted to the base as a 
  
  tenant and a $1.1m purpose built building is being constructed for their use. 
  
  Negotiations are also proceeding with other groups who recognise the unique 
  
  advantages of operating from this strategically positioned Base. Rental income and 
  
  associated revenues such as plant and labour hire will contribute significantly to the 
  
  overall economics of the facility. 
  
  **•**
  Protected moorings for cyclone shelter will be established inside the breakwater for 
  
  long term lease to local tug operators. The demand arises from serious vessel and crew 
  
  safety considerations. The Dampier Port Authority are reluctant to see the continued 
  
  use of cyclone moorings in the Harbour, not only for safety reasons, but for 
  
  environmental concerns as well. Oil spills are not acceptable under any circumstances 
  
  and will be avoided whatever the cost. Tug owners share similar concerns, but in 
  
  addition they need to remain in a position of readiness for crews and equipment to 
  
  resume their important functions immediately following a cyclonic event. The number 
  
  of specific purpose spread moorings, detailed on the adjacent plan will total 10 in the 
  
  first phase of construction, a limit which will be assisted by an ability to remove vessels 
  
  up to 100 tonnes from the water by wharf crane for tie down on cradles. 