Australia is finally building a proper “driveway” for its flagship Antarctic icebreaker, the RSV Nuyina. Following a funding agreement of US$130.6 million from the federal government, work has officially commenced to redevelop Macquarie Wharf 6 at the Port of Hobart.
The new wharf is designed to end those costly trips. The project’s core mission is to provide a dedicated berth where the Nuyina can load, unload, lay up, and crucially refuel right in Hobart.
Key upgrades:
Antarctic Base: Serving as the operational hub for the Australian Antarctic Program (AAD).
Refueling Solution: Direct access to fuel without navigating the bridge.
Shore Power: Connecting the $528 million vessel to the grid while docked to cut emissions.
The contract was awarded to Hazell Brady JV in December, and demolition of the old wharf is already underway. The project is scheduled for completion in 2028.