Port grounds looking ship-shape thanks to local Aboriginal corporation

Southern Ports has extended its partnership with Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation (ETNTAC) to maintain its Port of Esperance grounds and gardens to June 2025.

ETNTAC was first awarded the contract in mid-2023 following a competitive tender process and has since diligently maintained key areas at the Port of Esperance, including the Don Mackenzie Waterfront Gardens, the Tommy Windich Cultural Precinct and gardens surrounding its administration office.

Southern Ports Acting CEO Monica Birkner said Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation had continued to show they were the right team for the job.

“Southern Ports is responsible for a significant amount of land on Esperance’s pristine waterfront, so it is important to us and the wider community that those areas are properly maintained,” said Ms Birkner.

“Since coming on board last year, Tjaltjraak’s ground maintenance crew have been brilliant to work with as they recognise the importance of these areas to our broader community and we’re proud to continue our relationship.”

The partnership has had more than just beautification benefits, with the creation of four local jobs for the Native Title Aboriginal corporation.

Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation CEO Peter Bednall said the organisation pursued commercial contracts as a way of providing employment to those in need and to help achieve financial sustainability for the organisation.

“Southern Ports’ commitment to maintaining its grounds whilst eliminating invasive species and other biodiversity threats aligns perfectly with our values and dedication to the community,” said Mr Bednall.

“Working with Southern Ports has provided critical pathways for our crews to participate in a commercial enterprise whilst delivering essential, locally driven, value-for-money services to the port.”

Southern Ports’ commitment to building capacity in its regions has a strong focus on supporting Aboriginal procurement and reconciliation initiatives. 

The Port of Esperance spans across 75 hectares, with the majority of land used for its operations which facilitate 13.6 million tonnes of trade each year.

Esperance Tjaltjraak Native Title Aboriginal Corporation crews have been taking care of the Port of Esperance grounds since mid-2023.