New blades for Hydro Tasmania wind turbine arrive on King Island
Working in partnership with TasPorts’ Bass Island Line crew, the 25-metre-long blades were shipped from Devonport to King Island on the John Duigan.
The safe delivery ensures the next stage of repair works can now begin.
Hydro Tasmania’s consulting arm Entura is delivering the project and overseeing the repair of the wind turbine.
Entura Project Manager Kristian Payne said transporting components at this scale required great skill and the successful delivery had been a team effort.
“The logistics behind transporting blades of this size requires careful planning, coordination and collaboration,” said Mr Payne.
“From loading the blades in Devonport to safely delivering them to King Island, this has been a complex operation and we thank TasPorts and Total Freight Solutions for their expertise and support.”
Bass Island Line General Manager Toby Terry said the successful delivery reflected the strength and capability of the service.
“Moves like this highlight the versatility of the John Duigan and the skill of our crew,” Mr Terry said.
“Managing cargo of this scale alongside regular freight services requires disciplined planning and precise execution, particularly when operating within the constraints of tides and vessel stability requirements.”
The new blades will replace the blades on a wind turbine that sustained damage during extreme wind conditions.
The next stage of the works includes repairs for the tower and concrete foundation, replacing the nacelle and installing the new blades.
Hydro Tasmania recently completed the refurbishment of four wind turbines on King Island, which have all been returned to service, with only minor works still to be completed.
The wind turbine works are expected to be complete by the end of 2026.