Seismic challenges and climate change in the Pacific have severely impacted marine infrastructure, often hindering access to essential relief supplies during disasters. In response, Marine Infrastructure Australia is utilizing its extensive experience and technical advancements to provide resilient and competitive solutions specifically designed for the unique conditions of the Pacific region.
According to John Hogan, the Director of Marine Structures, “Floating marinas can flexibly handle tidal changes and wave conditions, unlike rigid fixed structures that need costly protective works.” This resilience offers a significant market advantage in island areas frequently affected by cyclones, flooding, and earthquakes. Hogan also highlighted the potential for reducing seismic risk and project expenses by advocating for floating structures over more traditional fixed ones in a region where seismic design requirements can inflate budgets.
The company’s long-term vision focuses on creating sustainable and adaptive marine infrastructure that can evolve to meet environmental and economic demands. With a rich background that includes 25 years of experience leading Superior Jetties and a solid foundation in the US mining and concrete sectors, Hogan brings valuable engineering and business know-how to the company’s strategy.
Marine Infrastructure Australia has developed a business model that combines centralised manufacturing with local installation. By manufacturing key components in Australia and sending production kits to Fiji for local assembly by reliable partners, they can optimize costs while building in-market capabilities. This method minimizes on-site construction time, reducing both overall project costs and complexity.
Hogan envisions gradually transferring specific manufacturing processes, such as aluminium fabrication, to Fiji through training and apprenticeship programs. He believes that building local skills will support sustainability and align with Fiji’s economic development goals, creating job opportunities and enhancing local expertise over time.
The company also plans to enter other Pacific markets through joint ventures with local civil engineering firms skilled in marine projects, rather than establishing its own factories. This strategy hinges on collaborating with local partners who possess essential equipment and knowledge of the regional market for effective fieldwork, while keeping manufacturing operations centralized.
Hogan emphasized the importance of collaboration as the most efficient means of scaling operations, relying on established relationships with trusted stakeholders to avoid redundant infrastructure development. “This strategy limits capital expenditures while expanding geographic reach efficiently,” he stated.
Through these innovative approaches, Marine Infrastructure Australia aims to not only meet the pressing needs of the Pacific but also support local economies and foster resilience against the impacts of climate change and seismic activity.
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