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Darwin Ports

East Arm Warf Fuel Terminal Fire Water Supply System Upgrade

Case Study - Darwin Port - 01

Enhancing safety, protecting infrastructure, and reducing corrosion risks at the NT’s bulk liquid berth

Client: Darwin Port (Landbridge Port Pty Ltd)
Location: Darwin, NT / Larrakia Country

The challenge

Berth 4 at Darwin Port is a high-risk zone, used for the bulk transfer of flammable and combustible liquids. Its fire suppression systems — including remotely operated foam monitors and automatic sprinklers — require large volumes of water and draw directly from the harbour. But during essential testing, seawater discharge caused significant corrosion and damage to operational infrastructure. The challenge was clear: maintain fire protection integrity without compromising the long-term condition of berth equipment.

Our Approach

Lucid was engaged to assess the fire system’s performance, identify upgrade options, and design a more sustainable solution. We brought a fire and life safety lens to a highly operational, marine-based environment — combining site-specific compliance, technical rigour, and practical coordination with port operators and suppliers.

Our work included a full masterplan and detailed design for a fresh water system to support fire testing — improving safety outcomes while mitigating saltwater-related asset degradation.

Solutions delivered

  • On-site assessment by Lucid’s fire and life safety engineering team
  • Compliance review against NT Legislation, Australian Standards, and international best practice
  • Engineering report outlining system performance, issues, and recommended upgrade pathways
  • Budget estimates and design documentation for the new fresh water testing and maintenance system
  • Stakeholder liaison with Darwin Port operators, contractors, and equipment suppliers
  • Ongoing technical advisory role throughout construction and commissioning

Case Study - Darwin Port

Outcomes

  • Clear pathway to reduce corrosion and damage during critical system testing
  • Continued fire protection compliance and effectiveness for bulk liquid operations
  • Strengthened relationship with Darwin Port through trusted, pragmatic advisory
  • Lucid re-engaged to lead the full design and support implementation of the upgrades

Better World Impact

In high-risk environments, the balance between safety and sustainability matters. Lucid’s work at Darwin Port delivers both — enabling safer operations while protecting critical infrastructure from long-term damage. It’s an example of how smarter system design supports resilient ports, safer communities, and more responsible asset stewardship.

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