Work on all 11 tanks has begun at the Crowley Bulk Fuel Storage Facility, with the final ring beam being poured last month.
Being built at Land Development Corporation’s future Bulk Liquids Area at East Earn, Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison said the Crowley Bulk Fuel Storage Facility will be the largest of its kind in the Northern Territory.
“This is an important project that not only supports critical defence work, but also supports local jobs and businesses. It will strengthen the Territory as a leading hub for defence and national security because of our strategic location and capabilities. The Territory is the place to invest in — we are safe, stable, and beaming with opportunities,” Minister Manison stated.
Saunders International carries out engineering, procurement, construction management services, and tank works to Crowley. Meanwhile, Tetra Tech Proteus is the engineer of record and provides design services.
According to Minister Manison, the $270 million project will be critical in servicing US defence operations in the region.
Amid the construction phase, the project has generated about 200 jobs and will support up to an additional 10 employees once operational.
“The dedicated efforts of the entire Crowley team, including our project partners as well as our myriad stakeholders across Australia and Pacific Region, is the key to the successful advancement of this strategic capability,” Crowley Government Services Vice President Sean Thomas said.
Recently, Crowley entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Larrakia Development Corporation to collaborate in developing job training programs that will lead to full-time employment in Larrakia’s new facility.
When completed, the facility would hold up to 300 million litres of military-grade petroleum for use by US Defence.
“We are honoured to add value to the fabric of the Northern Territory, but also, importantly, to serve those in uniform that work tirelessly to ensure a free and open INDO-PACIFIC region,” Thomas said.
Construction is expected to finish by September 2023, with the facility to be operational shortly after.
