Docklands Shipping Control Tower remediation nears completion

Scaffold surrounds the Docklands Shipping Control Tower during maintenance works

Important maintenance works continue on the Docklands Shipping Control Tower on North Wharf in the Victoria Harbour precinct.

The old window frames and render have been removed and new window frames and glass panels are being made especially to fit the tower, requiring bespoke measurement and installation due to the age and design of the building.

The historic crows nest was originally used as a lookout to spot approaching hazards, other ships, or land by using the naked eye or telescopes or binoculars. when the tower was first operational - was removed remediated, repainted and reinstalled to withstand the marine conditions.

Improvements to electrical and security systems have also been made, as well as a new roof membrane that will keep the tower safe and dry.

When completed in mid 2025, the tower will be ready to stand tall for years to come.

The current tower was built in 1966 to coordinate shipping, towage pilots and emergency services in the busy port, and was decommissioned in the 2000’s when the port facilities at Docklands were relocated further west to the Port of Melbourne.

Designed by architect C J Smith, the structure once housed a lift, stairs and two decks – one for observation duties containing radar and communication equipment, the other being for amenities for its 24-hour a day operation.

Docklands comprises of a number of precincts, each with a diverse variety of residential, commercial, retail and leisure spaces and developed under the guidance of Development Victoria.

With around two thirds complete, Docklands is a mix of homes, corporate headquarters, hotels, entertainment venues and cleverly designed parks.

Find out more about the Docklands Victoria Harbour precinct.

The crows nest successfully reinstalled