As part of Pilbura Ports new Dampier Bulk Handling Facility (DBHF), in Western Australia, DEMEX was engaged by principal contractor Clough WeBuild to deliver critical demolition works ahead of construction. Located 1,540 kilometres north of Perth, the project involved the removal of existing ageing wharf assets to prepare the site for redevelopment. Working within an operational port environment and contending with extreme marine and weather conditions, DEMEX safely and successfully completed all demolition activities, enabling redevelopment works to proceed on schedule.
DEMEX was responsible for the demolition of two decommissioned wharf structures: the Heavy Load Out (HLO) facility and the Alternative Load Facility (ALF). This involved the removal of 120 corroded sheet piles using a vibro hammer system, along with extensive in situ concrete demolition across both structures. The ALF, constructed from 40-tonne precast concrete blocks and mass concrete infill, presented additional challenges due to incomplete structural documentation. Concrete was processed onsite and reused, contributing to the project’s recycling objectives. All works were carried out under challenging tidal conditions, in extreme heat, and during the Pilbara wet season.
The project demanded high levels of adaptability and planning due to its remote location, operational port constraints, and limited structural drawings. DEMEX overcame these challenges by adjusting demolition methods in response to variable conditions, including unknown levels of corrosion within the sheet piles. Despite working in intense heat and a live port environment, the team maintained a strong focus on safety, environmental compliance, and operational continuity. The successful in situ processing and reuse of concrete also supported broader sustainability goals on the project.
Subscribe and stay connected with news, insights and client project success