Appointments made to deliver new Spirits infrastructure

The Tasmanian Government has further intervened to help deliver the temporary berth facility and ensure greater capacity at Devonport ahead of the arrival of the new Spirits of Tasmania.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said two key appointments have been made.

Ben Moloney, who is currently responsible for the management of the delivery of the $786 million new Bridgewater Bridge, has been appointed to collaborate with TT-Line and TasPorts Project Directors to ensure delivery.

Prior to his role on the Bridgewater Bridge, Mr Moloney oversaw the delivery of the $584 million Royal Hobart Hospital redevelopment. 

Infrastructure delivery expert, Peter Gemell, has also been appointed to oversee the project, to ensure the berth is ready as soon as possible and also allows for increased capacity for passengers and vehicles.

Mr Gemell will bring a wealth of experience - developed over 40 years managing major infrastructure, buildings and services projects for the private sector and government sponsor agencies. 

Additionally, shareholder Ministers will issue further directions to both TT-Line and TasPorts that provide for greater responsibility and access for the Department of State Growth.

The move is in addition to the issuing of a ministerial directive to the two businesses after the Government was made aware of unacceptable delays in the project.

Premier Jeremy Rockliff said that the delivery of the new vessels is a massive project, and an important one for Tasmania.

“I have been clear of my disappointment in these delays, and it’s frankly not acceptable.

“We will pull out all stops to get this done as soon as possible.

“I’m not interested in excuses, or the blame game. I want solutions and I want them now. That’s what Tasmanians deserve and expect.”

As part of our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, we’re delivering bigger and better infrastructure for all Tasmanians to enjoy and utilise. 

The building of the new, purpose-built ships is a once-in-a-generation project that will deliver significant benefits to Tasmania’s visitor economy and the broader Tasmanian economy for many years to come.