The design and construction of the harbour at Fremantle, commenced in 1892, was C.Y. O'Connor's first major public works project. It was a huge undertaking, involving blasting to clear away the rocky bar that had, until then, blocked the river entrance. Dredging was required to deepen the harbour, twin breakwaters (the North and South Moles) were constructed and wharves were built. The Inner Harbour at Fremantle was officially opened on 4 May 1897.

Construction and expansion of the port has continued for over one hundred years. Today Fremantle is one of Australia's fastest growing general cargo ports. The development of Fremantle Harbour was an achievement of tremendous importance to the future prosperity of Western Australia, and engineers continue to work together to make it an important place for the future.

It is testimony to O'Connor's vision that the Inner Harbour is still largely based on his original design, although the port facilities and infrastructure have been progressively modernised over the years to meet the changing requirements of shipping.

Engineering plays a vital role in the construction and maintenance of infrustructure to support the shipping business. On the left are some links to a number of key projects at Fremantle Ports, the Outer Harbour Project being the largest project undertaken since C.Y O'Connor developed the harbour in Fremantle.

Engineering courses:

• TAFE - Engineering (certificate, diploma, advanced diploma)
• Edith Cowan University - Engineering (undergraduate, postgraduate degrees)
• Curtin University - Engineering (undergraduate, postgraduate degrees)
• Murdoch University - Engineering Science (undergraduate, postgratuate degrees)
• UWA - Engineering (undergraduate, postgratuate degrees)

Apprenticeships and traineeships where you can be involved in engineering:

• Building and construction
• Electrical
• Electrotechnology
• Information and communication technology
• Metals, manufacturing and services
• Process manufacturing
• Transport and storage
• Utilities