Infrastructure

Spirit of Tasmania Geelong Terminal Relocation

Spirit of Tasmania Geelong Terminal Relocation featured image
  • Client
    TT-Line
  • Role
    Client-Side Project Manager
  • Partners
    TT-Line
    GeelongPort
    The APP Group
  • Value
    $135m

About the Project

TT-Line engaged SwitchCo to complete the Spirit of Tasmania terminal relocation from Melbourne to Geelong.

BACKGROUND

SwitchCo was brought in six months after the site establishment to administer and deliver the project. The project involved representing TT-Line, aligning their interests with the GeelongPort project management team, and ensuring the project was on time and within budget. The new state-of-the-art Geelong terminal incorporates innovative technologies such as the Automated Mooring Units (AMU’s) and a unique three-level access ramp for simultaneous boarding from multiple levels. The ramp is the first in the world, allowing faster loading and disembarking of customers and freight.

CHALLENGES

With the imminent end of the current TT-Line Station Pier lease, this project’s adherence to time was a priority. The critical path for delivery allowed a very small window of opportunity to develop and improve the design. When it was determined that site communications and security were not part of the landlord’s scope, indications were that the project would be delayed by three months, jeopardising the first sailing date. Instead, SwitchCo undertook a D&C (design and construction) delivery of site-wide communications to ensure successful operations on time.

OUTCOMES

SwitchCo successfully transitioned the Spirit of Tasmania shipping terminal facility from a construction site to fully operational. SwitchCo guided and educated TT-Line on the new facilities, processes, and systems, leading to a seamless and successful transition. SwitchCo delivered the site comms package for half of the expected variation value and achieved the first sailing without a single day extension to the deadline.