The decommissioning, demolition and conversion of the Caltex Kurnell Refinery in NSW into Australia’s largest fuel import terminal has been successfully completed.
The $200 million project began in 2014 with the closure, decommissioning and demolition of refinery assets in consultation with the local community. Rectification works have continued over the last four years with final works taking place over the last two months.
1.5 million-man hours were worked over the life of the project, with approximately 300 project personnel on site at the peak of works.
Key milestones included the demolition and removal of:
- 14 process units
- Four power plants
- 67 above and below ground tanks
- All electrical services, pipeways and utilities
112,000 tonnes of concrete were also processed, crushed and re-used as road base and top coat on the new terminal site, while 50,000 tonnes of steel were recycled.
Caltex Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Julian Segal, said the refinery played a proud role in the history of Australian manufacturing and within the local community.
“The Kurnell Oil Refinery was commissioned in 1956 and became the heart of the local community through employment and other opportunities for another 58 years. For the locals of the Sutherland Shire, the refinery was a feature of the skyline that will remain in their memories forever.
“Today is the end of an important era in our history. I’m pleased that the project was completed without any lost time injuries or impacts to the local environment and we look forward to a continued strong relationship with the Kurnell community as we move forward.”
Louise Warner, Executive General Manager of Fuels & Infrastructure, said the Kurnell import terminal remains a critical part of Caltex’s leading fuels infrastructure network.
“As Australia’s largest finished product import terminal, Kurnell plays a major role in meeting fuel demand throughout the Sydney basin and connects with our broader supply chain to ensure we can safely and reliably meet the needs of our customers across east coast markets.
“I would like to congratulate the project team who delivered this work safely, on time and ahead of budget, while strengthening the existing strong relationship with the local community.”
