Technology being trialled in Devonport on the $240 million Quaylink port development will be used on port expansion projects in Burnie, Hobart and Bell Bay.

The ground-breaking technology is being used underwater to protect wharf infrastructure and the river bed from scouring caused by ship propellers.

Acting TasPorts CEO Stephen Casey says it’s the first time in Tasmania rock bags have been used, consisting of steel mesh ags containing eight tonnes of rock quarried from the North-West Coast.

It’s the first time the technique has been used in Tasmania and Mr Casey says experience and skills gained and knowledge gained during the Quaylink project will be used for large scale port expansion works in Burnie, Hobart and bell Bay in coming years.