Van Oord, a Dutch company with roots dating back to 1868, is one of the world’s leading dredging and marine engineering contractors. In Australia, Van Oord has played a vital role in shaping the country’s coastal infrastructure—particularly in Queensland—through major dredging and reclamation projects.
Australian projects of national significance
Van Oord has been involved in multiple high-profile maritime works.
In 2011, it partnered with Dredging International (as VODI JV) to deliver the Gladstone Western Basin dredging program. The project, valued at over AUD 800 million in total contracts, deepened the port and created access for LNG terminals on Curtis Island. It involved the removal of more than 24 million cubic metres of material—making it one of the largest capital dredging projects in Australian history.
In 2008, Van Oord was responsible for the Brisbane Airport expansion project. The company dredged and reclaimed 2 million cubic metres of sand from Middle Banks to create a new runway platform. This €22 million contract directly contributed to Brisbane’s international aviation capacity.
Van Oord has delivered marine pipeline and trenching projects near Darwin, Western Australia, and in offshore gas fields. Their work has included shoreline approaches, rock installation, and seabed preparation for major energy infrastructure.
Sustainability and innovation
As part of its global vision, Van Oord is investing in hybrid and dual-fuel vessels to reduce emissions and increase efficiency. Safety and sustainability are integrated into every stage of its operations, reflecting the company’s long-standing commitment to responsible marine engineering.
Leadership in Queensland
Van Oord’s Queensland operations are managed from Brisbane by Kasper Kuiper, a respected maritime professional who has also served in key heritage and diplomatic roles. His broader story is told in a companion article available on this website: Kasper Kuiper – a Dutch mariner and community leader in Queensland.
With a permanent base in Brisbane, Van Oord represents the best of Dutch maritime expertise operating in Australia. Its contributions to Queensland’s port, airport, and marine infrastructure underline the continued relevance of Dutch engineering values in this part of the world.
