Final lift complete for Spirit of Tasmania gantry superstructure

Delivered for client TT-Line by the Spirit Partners team, including Fitzgerald Constructions and locally based partners BridgePro Engineering, Gradco and VOS Constructions, the project is progressing the critical infrastructure required to support the safe and efficient berthing of the new Spirit of Tasmania vessels.

Standing more than 27 metres tall and spanning 38 metres wide, the completed gantry is made up of seven individual sections and held together by more than 1,000 bolts. It supports four steel ramps as part of the fixed infrastructure used for vehicle loading and unloading operations.

The superstructure was installed in carefully planned stages, with large supporting columns extending over the water, subject to movement and requiring precise alignment within tight tolerances. To minimise risk and streamline installation, the remaining upper sections were assembled on the ground as a single unit before being lifted into place.

The linkspan, an articulated bridge system connecting vessels to the terminal and designed to adjust with tide and vessel movement, was also successfully installed using a synchronised lifting system.

This involved a 650 tonne land-based crawler crane and a 400 tonne crane positioned on a barge in the water working together using a synchronised hoist system to lift the 284 tonne structure into place.

BMD Constructions General Manager VIC/SA/TAS Ivan Fratric said this stage of the project marked a significant achievement for the project and delivery partners.

“The gantry installation represents one of the most technically challenging elements of the construction program, requiring close coordination across marine, civil, structural and logistics teams to safely deliver this critical piece of infrastructure.

“This milestone reflects the strength of BMD’s collaborative delivery model in delivering one of Tasmania’s most significant marine transport infrastructure projects.

“As works enter the final phase, the team’s focus turns to the fit-out of linkspans, hydraulics, handrails and guardrails required to support terminal operations, ensuring the terminal is ready for operations in October 2026 ahead of the peak season,” Mr Fratric said.

Upon opening, Devonport Terminal 3 will improve the efficiency and capacity of Tasmania’s key transport link, strengthening the state’s transport, tourism and freight sectors and powering its maritime connection.