Derby (AUDRB)

The port consists of a wharf with barging facilities that can be used for the export of lead and zinc concentrates from local mining operations. In recent years however, the exportation of bulk mineral sand products has relocated to the Port of Broome. Whilst the majority of the commercial activity has been relocated to a separate facility, the port, as stated by the Harbour Master, remains operational.

Derby port is located at the head of King Sound WA, approx 236km NE of Broome, Australia.

Available in depths of 11-12.8m, with Black Rock Light bearing 090°, distant 3.4nm. Further anchorage available in depths 7.3-9.1m, located NNW of North Mary Island, with the front range light bearing 141°, distant 5.6nm. Final anchorage is available for smaller vessels in depths of 5.5-7.3m NE of the same islet.

The approach is subject to constant change. Vessels proceed through Sunday Strait, approx 0.5nm E of East Roe Island and 0.75nm E of East Sunday Island. Once vessels are approx 2.75nm SW of Amur Reef, they must steer 157° approx 24.3nm passing W of Fairway Rocks to Black Rock Light bearing 135°, distance 12.2nm. The channel from Point Torment to Derby and into Fitzroy River passes between the E shore and Mary Islands. Local knowledge is required owing to its shallow nature and the number of dangers which encumber it. The mooring buoys may be approached W of Inner Rip Shoal in depths greater than 5.0m. The least depth in the approach to the berth is 2.9m, the berth dries at low water.

Admiralty Pilot NP13.

Facilities were upgraded with a modern fendering system.

For anchorage, a lighted mooring buoy lies 1.3nm N of the N end of North Mary Island

Wharf dries at low tide.

Tidal range up to 11.8m. Tidal stream: In the vicinity of Inner Rip Shoal the falling tidal stream sets W. At springs the ingoing tidal stream attains a rate of 2.5kts and sets slightly out from the jetty. Caution: The channel is liable to constant change and tidal streams are strong.

Shire of Derby West Kimberley contact info Telephone: +61 08 9191 0999 Email: sdwk@sdwk.wa.gov.au Kimberly Ports Authority contact info Telephone: +61 8 9194 3100 Facsimile: +61 8 9194 3188 Email: info@kimberleyports.wa.gov.au / operations@kimberleyports.wa.gov.au