The USD$70 million project represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in Tonga’s history.
McConnell Dowell and consulting engineering company Haskoning and construction company have successfully completed a landmark maritime infrastructure upgrade in the Kingdom of Tonga, transforming the nation’s only international port into a modern, climate-resilient facility that secures the country’s economic and social lifeline.
Delivered in partnership with the Tongan government, Ministry of Infrastructure, and the Ports Authority, the project was funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific (AIFFP). The USD$70 million project represents one of the largest infrastructure investments in Tonga’s history.
The Queen Sālote International Wharf is the country’s principal gateway for 95 per cent of all imported goods, and has withstood decades of degradation with limited maintenance. Working closely with the Government of Tonga, the ADB, and local stakeholders, Haskoning developed a comprehensive rehabilitation plan to protect the port.
“Every shipment of food, medicine, and goods passes through this port. By combining innovation, collaboration, and local partnership, we’re helping Tonga secure its maritime future and strengthen its connection to the world. Despite the challenges of Hunga Tonga-Hunga Ha’apai Eruption, Cyclone Tino and Harold, a global pandemic and supply chain disruptions, the project was completed on time and within budget,” said David Perbey, Business Development Director Australia, New Zealand and Pacific at Haskoning.
The project has not only rebuilt but also extended key sections of the Queen Sālote International Wharf, with the new design allowing for larger vessels, increased cargo throughput, and enhanced safety.
“People were central to the success of the project; 80% of the workforce was from the local community. We were also pleased to be able to achieve an 11% female employment rate. Just this month, we passed 1,000,000 work hours without a single Lost Time Injury. The team completed more than 3,000 hours of training, developing new skills and earning qualifications, which provide long-term benefits for Tonga,” said Fraser Wyllie, McConnell Dowell’s Managing Director, New Zealand and the Pacific.
“Delivering world-class infrastructure with the support of the local community has been incredibly rewarding. McConnell Dowell’s purpose is to provide a better life for people, and this project is a stellar example of what can be achieved when we work together,” said Wyllie.
The environmental outcomes achieved were equally significant, diverting 85% of waste from landfill, and recycling 126 tonnes of steel and 11 metric tonnes of waste oil. The project also reused 2,160 tonnes of concrete, crushing and putting it into rock bags to create the erosion protection revetment.
The wharf upgrade has more than doubled the port’s operational efficiency, allowing vessels up to 220 metres in length and increasing capacity to 45,000 TEU containers annually. It now serves as a model for climate-resilient infrastructure delivery across the Pacific, demonstrating how global expertise and local knowledge can combine to enhance regional sustainability.
Haskoning and McConnell Dowell continue to work with Pacific governments and development agencies to design and deliver infrastructure that supports prosperity and resilience across climate-vulnerable island nations.
Below: His Majesty King Tupou VI of Tonga and Fraser Wyllie, McConnell Dowell General Manager New Zealand and the Pacific, at the official opening ceremony on 31 October.
Below: The first two ships docking at the newly opened Queen Sālote International Wharf.
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Mark Twycross, former McConnell Dowell Company Director and Executive General Manager of Pipelines.
Mark dedicated many decades of service to McConnell Dowell, where he played a pivotal role in developing our Pipelines Division and securing major projects across Australia, South East Asia, and beyond.
He was a respected leader and mentor who supported and believed in those he worked with, shaping countless careers and making a lasting contribution not only to McConnell Dowell but to the wider Australian Pipeline Industry. Mark was also a strong advocate for safety, championing WHS culture and continuous improvement across the sector.
We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. Mark will be remembered for his leadership, his care for people, and his enduring impact on our company and industry.
Lower the booms, silence the trenches—another legend has left the Right of Way.
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Upgrading 50 tonne bollards to 100 tonne capacity
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Concrete remediation
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Sheet pile wall remediation
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Installation of a new crane rail
These works will help ensure Swanson Dock West continues to operate safely and efficiently, supporting the flow of goods through one of Australia’s most important port facilities.
The project is scheduled to commence in September 2025, with completion targeted for late 2027.
We thank the Port of Melbourne for their ongoing trust and look forward to delivering another safe and successful outcome together.
We are pleased to announce that Maurits den Hollander has been appointed as General Manager – Queensland and Northern Territory.
Maurits brings over 17 years’ experience in construction & civil infrastructure delivery across Australia, with a proven track record in regional leadership, major pipeline and transport projects, and operational excellence in sectors ranging from water and resources to renewables.
Since joining McConnell Dowell in 2021 as Commercial Manager QLD/NT, Maurits has played a key role in strengthening our commercial capabilities and driving the success of projects across the region. His leadership approach is grounded in collaboration, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to safety and quality.
As GM QLD/NT, Maurits will lead our talented Queensland and Northern Territory team as they deliver complex infrastructure for our customers and communities.
Please join us in congratulating Maurits on his well-deserved appointment. We look forward to seeing the ongoing success of the QLD/NT team under his leadership.
Hot off the press! Our New Bridgewater Bridge project has just been awarded the 2025 Australian Construction Achievement Award (ACAA).
As Tasmania’s largest ever transport infrastructure undertaking, the 1.28 km concrete box‑girder bridge spanning the Derwent River represents a milestone in engineering innovation, sustainable delivery and community impact. This accolade recognises the project’s commitment to excellence across design, execution and social value and we are over the moon!
Australian Constructors Association CEO Jon Davies said the project redefines modern bridge building:
“This is a world-class example of innovation and collaboration under pressure – delivered on time and on budget through a pandemic, with meaningful outcomes for workers, communities and the environment,” said Mr Davies.
Engineers Australia CEO Romilly Madew AO said the project reflects the profession at its best: “Bridgewater Bridge is proof of what Australian engineering can achieve - local expertise, world-class design and real impact for the community." said Ms Madew.
The New Bridgewater Bridge was officially opened to traffic on 1 June 2025, delivering four lanes of improved connectivity between Granton and Bridgewater and serving some 22,000 daily travellers.
To everyone who played a part — you made this possible. From our internal and extended project teams, through design partners and local suppliers, to the Tasmanian community and stakeholder networks — thank you. This award is yours.
