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The Dampier Archipelago and Burrup Peninsula are areas of significant indigenous heritage value. There is little information on the location of indigenous heritage sites within the Port area other than on port land. However, the Port of Dampier extends to the high water mark and it is unlikely that significant indigenous heritage sites occur in intertidal or subtidal areas of the Port. Heritage values are considered as part of the approval process for the development of land for port use.
Maritime heritage
Remnants of early European whaling and pearling activities are present on some of the islands of the Archipelago. Historical shipwrecks may exist within the Port although there are no such records.
Shipping
The Port of Dampier is one of Australia’s largest port in terms of tonnage of exports shipped. Iron ore, salt and LNG are the primary exports from the Port. The export of these materials provides significant revenue to the State.
Commercial fishing
Commercial fishing comprising of prawn and finfish trawling, and finfish trapping and wetlining, makes an important contribution to the regional economy. Most of these activities are carried out to the east and west of the Port of Dampier and there is relatively little commercial fishing within the Port.
Tourism and recreation
Tourism and recreation in the region are largely based on marine activities including boating, fishing, snorkelling, diving and using the beaches. Most tourism and recreation activities are focussed on the islands of the Dampier Archipelago. Recreational fishing is common within Port limits.
Aquaculture
Pearl aquaculture leases exist amongst some of the islands of the Dampier Archipelago. There are currently no active leases within the Port.
Coastal use
The islands of the Archipelago, the Burrup Peninsula and adjoining Pilbara coast provides amenity for land-based activities such as camping, bush walking, swimming and fishing.
The coastal areas of Dampier and the Burrup Peninsula also provide land for industrial development. Access to cooling water and the ability to discharge industrial effluent into the Port are key requirements for industry.
