Solid base for conference market tourism

Work on the Darwin Convention and Exhibition Centre is well under way, with the first pour of the concrete supports at the site, signalling the start of building construction.

With the earthworks completed, more than 400 steel reinforced concrete piles will support the large basement slab and the 4000 square metre building. The supports are being driven by Frankipile Australia which uses the quietest system available in this country.

Chief Minister Clare Martin said the sea wall also continues to stretch across the harbour, with earthworks placed along 340 metres of what will be a 650 metre structure. "When complete, in September 2006, the sea wall will be the equivalent of three storeys high (from the sea bed) and up to 70 metres wide at its base," Ms Martin said.

The sea wall, which is being constructed by Macmahon NT, will create a four hectare permanent water body for water-based recreation activities. It will also provide for a walking trail along the length of the sea wall and will protect the waterfront area from storm surges. The Sitzler Barclay Mowlem joint venture said the convention centre is on target to open in 2008.