The Bernacchi-1 project in Bellbuoy Beach has a number of phases both in the planning and design approvals phase and into the installation and commissioning phases for the delivery of the project for Tasmania.

These phases and critical milestones are highlighted below:

Phase 1: Planning  

·       June 2026 - Sept 2026

·       Initial route selection

·       Agency consultation project briefings

·       Planning assessment and desktop studies completed

 

Phase 2: Final survey and design

 ·      Oct 2026 - Nov 2026

·       Marine route survey activities undertaken to determine final cable route

·       Site investigations/ground conditions investigations at HDD location & cable shelter  

·       Survey approvals

 

Phase 3: Cable installation approvals

 ·      Nov 2026 - Jan 2027

·       George Town council development consent – Planning consent

·       Crown lands consent

·       NRE and parks consent

·       Cultural heritage consent

  

Phase 4: Installation

 ·      Nov 2026 - Feb 2027

·       Beach manhole and HDD out to SEA construction

·       HDD and beach manhole installation

·       Front haul street conduit works

·       Cable landing shelter construction

·       Mar 2027

·       Subsea cable installation works

·       Street cable hauling works

 

Phase 5: Network commissioning

·       Feb - Mar 2027  

·       Equipment install and testing of system

FAQs

FAQs

What is the SMAP Project?

SUBCO recently completed a new transcontinental submarine cable in early 2026. The new 5,000km cable system is the first transcontinental submarine cable to connect Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne (via Torquay) and Sydney.  The SMAP cable represents the start of a new generation of hyperscale network infrastructure that will prove critical to Australia’s digital future.

What is the BERNACCHI-1 Project?

Branching into our new SMAP cable system Bernacchi-1 provides dual pathways to the mainland connecting to Melbourne and Sydney, Bernacchi -1 will be the first new fibre connection between Tasmania and mainland Australia in more than 20 years and will deliver more than 60 terabits per second pf additional capacity to the state on day one – more than all existing Bass Strait fibre cables combined.

Who is SUBCO?

SUBCO is a submarine cable operator, and has delivered over 20,000km in subsea cables across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. SUBCO has a strong record of developing, owning, and operating large-scale submarine infrastructure in the Australasia Region, which has provided critical digital gateways throughout parts of the world.

What is a submarine cable?

A submarine (or subsea) cable is usually laid on the ocean floor but, depending on the terrain and geographical risk, may sometimes be buried beneath the ocean floor.

 There are many types of submarine cables, each supporting different applications. The most common types of subsea cables are used for communications, power, or research. The landing infrastructure works to be carried out at 122 Bellbuoy Beach Rd is to support a new subsea cable to be used for communications.

Why are they important?

Subsea communication cables are used to facilitate today's global communications including the internet. Many people believe the internet is driven by satellite communication when in fact it is submarine cables that provide the connectivity between the world's continents and cities. Well over 95% of the world's internet traffic and communications economy passed over submarine cables.

An interactive map showing the communications cables of the world can be found at: https://www.submarinecablemap.com/

Why did we select Bellbuoy Beach?

Bellbuoy Beach is in close proximity to the newly laid SMAP cable allowing a branch to be installed into Tasmania off the backbone network, Bellbuoy Beach is also in close proximity to existing fibre backhaul networks that already connect to Launceston and other centres across Tasmania.

What other sites were considered?

Potential landing sites to the east were considered in the original studies, however due to existing undersea power and gas networks in the area and proposed onshore and offshore wind generation facilities, the area was ruled out. To the west of Bellbuoy Beach, the Launceston Ports and Tamah River entrance limit the options for landings.

What considerations were a factor in determining the best site?

Depth of water is critical for cable laying and future security of cable when coming into shore. Quickly achieving optimal water depth at the end of the Horizontally Directionally Drilled (HDD) conduit out to sea helps to better protect the cable from anchors and other interactions.

What approvals were needed?

  1. Hold a carrier licence under the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth);

  2. Confirm that the installation may proceed under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth);

  3. Obtain an ACMA Cable installation permit for the proposed installation;

  4. Obtain any state based approvals and consents works within coastal state waters; and

  5. Comply with any Cultural Heritage Act and/or Environmental control requirements.

Who approved the cable installation?

SUBCO is a licensed carrier under the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth). As a carrier, SUBCO will apply for a submarine cable installation permit issued by the ACMA.

Who approved the cable landing site?

As a carrier, under Schedule 3 of the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth), SUBCO where applicable, will issue land access notices to Georgetown Council, public utilities and private landowners for parts of the works. Some parts of the proposed activities will require further consents and approvals.

This federal legislative framework requires a landowner (including a local council) to accede to a valid land access request where it applies.

Has an Environmental Protection Assessment been undertaken?

An assessment is currently underway to determine whether Ministerial approval and a formal Environmental Protection Assessment is required under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Referral applications can be viewed on the Department of the Environment and Energy website found at http://www.environment.gov.au/protection/environment-assessments

What about impact to marine life, in particular whales?

As the works involve the installation of an underground bore pipe, no impact on marine life, including whales or their migratory patterns, is anticipated. The new subsea cable will be directly laid onto the sea floor. Marine Mammal observers are present at all times of the installation vessel to observe the offshore activities.

How big is the out to sea conduit and cable?

Submarine cable is very small in comparison to other undersea infrastructure and ocean outfall pipes. Horizontal directional drill size and conduit is 110mm with cable measuring between 17mm and 37mm in diameter or about the same as a common garden hose. 

What is Horizontal Directional Drilling?

Directional Boring/HDD offers significant environmental advantages over traditional cut and cover pipeline/utility installations. The technique is routinely used when conventional trenching or excavating is not practical or when minimal surface disturbance is required. Directional drilling at Bellbuoy Beach will ensure that there is zero impact on the foreshore itself and out to sea. HDD conduit installation is planned to extend up to 750mts offshore.

How much noise will the HDD make?

The HDD activity will make noise similar to any construction site. Temporary works compound has sound proofing installed around the outside fence to reduce machinery noise as much as possible, Hours of operation will be limited to normal working hours during the drilling activity over the 4–6-week period at the HDD location.

How much area will the temporary works compound take up during works?

The temporary works compound will take up an area of approximately 60m x 30m. The area will be fenced with soundproof matting and geofabric and or ground matting will be utilised in the compound to minimise ground disturbance from heavy machinery working in and accessing the worksite. The Beach manhole and HDD will require an excavation area of 12m x 6m by 2.5 depth to install the manhole underground, HDD will be undertaken in that same excavation hole.

When do works commence?

Survey works have started – with on ground survey activities commenced at the landing sites., offshore survey will take place in November 2026. Site works including Horizontal drilling activities are scheduled to be undertaken October – December 2026, this includes the deployment of work site soundproof fencing, and preparation of the ground for drilling machinery.

How long are the works planned for?

The works required to install the manhole and bore pipe at Bellbuoy Beach are expected to be completed within 6-10 weeks. SUBCO, in consultation with local residents and various authorities (including George Town Council), to minimize disruption to the public during the works period.

What will be the operating hours, and impact be during the works?

Works will be conducted at between October and December and drilling operations will be conducted during normal working hours Monday to Saturday. The protective soundproof fencing will remain in place during this period to ensure the safety of the public and protection of equipment and workplace inside.

There will be some initial interruptions to traffic as the drilling rig is being transported onto the site and installed. These works are being planned to minimise interruption as much as possible, however some interruption is unavoidable. The same will apply when the equipment is removed upon completion of the works.

What will the impact be on Bellbuoy Beach once the works are complete?

Once the works are complete, the area will be fully reinstated and returfed/replanted as necessary. The Beach manhole is installed below ground so nothing will be visible on the top of the ground itself. 

Who is being consulted?

We have been consulting with several people within George Town Council, Tasmania Ports, NRE and Parks Tas, and other affected stakeholders.

Who is your contact at Commonwealth Government level for this project?

The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) is the relevant regulatory body. Public enquiries to the ACMA regarding this project should be directed to the public enquiry contact details on the ACMA’s website.

http://www.acma.gov.au/theACMA/About/Corporate/Structure-and-contacts/contact-the-acma-acma-1

When you speak to the appropriate person let them know your enquiry relates to the SUBCO submarine cable landing application for Bellbuoy Beach.

Did you properly inform George Town Council of the size of the barricade and the duration it would be in place?

Yes, SUBCO, its contractors and George Town Council will collaboratively coordinate the works to minimise any disruption to the community. For clarity, the worksite and its fencing is only to remain in place for the duration of the drilling works, which is due to be completed in end of November mid-December 2026 subject to approvals.

The worksite signage and initial flyers mention night works, when will this happen?

Due to the size of the drilling machinery and the possibility of disruption to public roadways, road transport safety regulations require that such equipment is transported to the work sites at Torquay at night. Subject to traffic management plan approvals by George Town Council, the night delivery of equipment into the worksite is expected to occur in late October or early November subject to permits and approvals being granted. A flyer will be distributed to the local community providing at least 48 hours in advance notice of the night equipment movement works.

What measures will be put in place to advise the community?

SUBCO will provide notice of the works in print and digital media. Mailbox drops will also occur 48hrs prior to significant works activities for local community closest to the works. Highly visible signage will also be installed at the worksite area informing the local community and passersby of the upcoming works.

What will the impact in the park post completion?

Once the works are complete, the area will be fully reinstated and returfed as necessary. The Beach manhole is installed below ground so nothing will be visible on the top of the ground itself.  There will be no visible permanent features.

 When the cable is ready for installation in early 2027 there will be a small work area re-established to haul the cable onshore from the ocean. A small works area at the site will be set up which is with some machinery required to haul the cable up the bore pipe. Once the cable is pulled onshore, fastened and tested then the pit lids will be reinstalled. The works required to haul the cable onshore are not expected to go for longer than a few days.

Will the project impact on amenity of the area e.g. future tree planting?

The work is classified as being low impact. The beach manholes are installed below ground so there will be no visible permanent features.

Who do I contact if I have any further enquiries?

Our team is available to review any concerns you may have - visit Contact Us - SUBCO

What is the SMAP Project?

SUBCO recently completed a new transcontinental submarine cable in early 2026. The new 5,000km cable system is the first transcontinental submarine cable to connect Perth, Adelaide, Melbourne (via Torquay) and Sydney.  The SMAP cable represents the start of a new generation of hyperscale network infrastructure that will prove critical to Australia’s digital future.

What is the BERNACCHI-1 Project?

SUBCO is a submarine cable operator, and has delivered over 20,000km in subsea cables across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. SUBCO has a strong record of developing, owning, and operating large-scale submarine infrastructure in the Australasia Region, which has provided critical digital gateways throughout parts of the world.

Who is SUBCO?

SUBCO is a submarine cable operator, and has delivered over 20,000km in subsea cables across Australia, Asia, and the Middle East. SUBCO has a strong record of developing, owning, and operating large-scale submarine infrastructure in the Australasia Region, which has provided critical digital gateways throughout parts of the world.

What is a submarine cable?

A submarine (or subsea) cable is usually laid on the ocean floor but, depending on the terrain and geographical risk, may sometimes be buried beneath the ocean floor.

There are many types of submarine cables, each supporting different applications. The most common types of subsea cables are used for communications, power, or research. The landing infrastructure works to be carried out at 122 Bellbuoy Beach Rd is to support a new subsea cable to be used for communications.

Why are they important?

Subsea communication cables are used to facilitate today's global communications including the internet. Many people believe the internet is driven by satellite communication when in fact it is submarine cables that provide the connectivity between the world's continents and cities. Well over 95% of the world's internet traffic and communications economy passed over submarine cables.

An interactive map showing the communications cables of the world can be found at: https://www.submarinecablemap.com/

Why did we select Bellbuoy Beach?

Bellbuoy Beach is in close proximity to the newly laid SMAP cable allowing a branch to be installed into Tasmania off the backbone network, Bellbuoy Beach is also in close proximity to existing fibre backhaul networks that already connect to Launceston and other centres across Tasmania.

What other sites were considered?

Potential landing sites to the east were considered in the original studies, however due to existing undersea power and gas networks in the area and proposed onshore and offshore wind generation facilities, the area was ruled out. To the west of Bellbuoy Beach, the Launceston Ports and Tamah River entrance limit the options for landings.

What considerations were a factor in determining the best site?

Depth of water is critical for cable laying and future security of cable when coming into shore. Quickly achieving optimal water depth at the end of the Horizontally Directionally Drilled (HDD) conduit out to sea helps to better protect the cable from anchors and other interactions.

What approvals were needed?

  1. Hold a carrier licence under the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth);

  2. Confirm that the installation may proceed under the Environmental Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth);

  3. Obtain an ACMA Cable installation permit for the proposed installation;

  4. Obtain any state based approvals and consents works within coastal state waters; and

  5. Comply with any Cultural Heritage Act and/or Environmental control requirements.

Who approved the cable installation?

SUBCO is a licensed carrier under the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth). As a carrier, SUBCO will apply for a submarine cable installation permit issued by the ACMA.

Who approved the cable landing site?

As a carrier, under Schedule 3 of the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth), SUBCO where applicable, will issue land access notices to Georgetown Council, public utilities and private landowners for parts of the works. Some parts of the proposed activities will require further consents and approvals.

This federal legislative framework requires a landowner (including a local council) to accede to a valid land access request where it applies.

Has an Environmental Protection Assessment been undertaken?

An assessment is currently underway to determine whether Ministerial approval and a formal Environmental Protection Assessment is required under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Referral applications can be viewed on the Department of the Environment and Energy website found at http://www.environment.gov.au/protection/environment-assessments

What about impact to marine life, in particular whales?

As the works involve the installation of an underground bore pipe, no impact on marine life, including whales or their migratory patterns, is anticipated. The new subsea cable will be directly laid onto the sea floor. Marine Mammal observers are present at all times of the installation vessel to observe the offshore activities.

How big is the out to sea conduit and cable?

Submarine cable is very small in comparison to other undersea infrastructure and ocean outfall pipes. Horizontal directional drill size and conduit is 110mm with cable measuring between 17mm and 37mm in diameter or about the same as a common garden hose. 

What is Horizontal Directional Drilling?

Directional Boring/HDD offers significant environmental advantages over traditional cut and cover pipeline/utility installations. The technique is routinely used when conventional trenching or excavating is not practical or when minimal surface disturbance is required. Directional drilling at Bellbuoy Beach will ensure that there is zero impact on the foreshore itself and out to sea. HDD conduit installation is planned to extend up to 750mts offshore.

How much noise will the HDD make?

The HDD activity will make noise similar to any construction site. Temporary works compound has sound proofing installed around the outside fence to reduce machinery noise as much as possible, Hours of operation will be limited to normal working hours during the drilling activity over the 4–6-week period at the HDD location.

How much area will the temporary works compound take up during works?

The temporary works compound will take up an area of approximately 60m x 30m. The area will be fenced with soundproof matting and geofabric and or ground matting will be utilised in the compound to minimise ground disturbance from heavy machinery working in and accessing the worksite. The Beach manhole and HDD will require an excavation area of 12m x 6m by 2.5 depth to install the manhole underground, HDD will be undertaken in that same excavation hole.

When do works commence?

Survey works have started – with on ground survey activities commenced at the landing sites., offshore survey will take place in November 2026. Site works including Horizontal drilling activities are scheduled to be undertaken October – December 2026, this includes the deployment of work site soundproof fencing, and preparation of the ground for drilling machinery.

How long are the works planned for?

The works required to install the manhole and bore pipe at Bellbuoy Beach are expected to be completed within 6-10 weeks. SUBCO, in consultation with local residents and various authorities (including George Town Council), to minimize disruption to the public during the works period.

What will be the operating hours, and impact be during the works?

Works will be conducted at between October and December and drilling operations will be conducted during normal working hours Monday to Saturday. The protective soundproof fencing will remain in place during this period to ensure the safety of the public and protection of equipment and workplace inside.

There will be some initial interruptions to traffic as the drilling rig is being transported onto the site and installed. These works are being planned to minimise interruption as much as possible, however some interruption is unavoidable. The same will apply when the equipment is removed upon completion of the works.

What will the impact be on Bellbuoy Beach once the works are complete?

Once the works are complete, the area will be fully reinstated and returfed/replanted as necessary. The Beach manhole is installed below ground so nothing will be visible on the top of the ground itself. 

Who is being consulted?

We have been consulting with several people within George Town Council, Tasmania Ports, NRE and Parks Tas, and other affected stakeholders.

Who is your contact at Commonwealth Government level for this project?

The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) is the relevant regulatory body. Public enquiries to the ACMA regarding this project should be directed to the public enquiry contact details on the ACMA’s website.

http://www.acma.gov.au/theACMA/About/Corporate/Structure-and-contacts/contact-the-acma-acma-1

When you speak to the appropriate person let them know your enquiry relates to the SUBCO submarine cable landing application for Bellbuoy Beach.

Did you properly inform George Town Council of the size of the barricade and the duration it would be in place?

Yes, SUBCO, its contractors and George Town Council will collaboratively coordinate the works to minimise any disruption to the community. For clarity, the worksite and its fencing is only to remain in place for the duration of the drilling works, which is due to be completed in end of November mid-December 2026 subject to approvals.

The worksite signage and initial flyers mention night works, when will this happen?

Due to the size of the drilling machinery and the possibility of disruption to public roadways, road transport safety regulations require that such equipment is transported to the work sites at Torquay at night. Subject to traffic management plan approvals by George Town Council, the night delivery of equipment into the worksite is expected to occur in late October or early November subject to permits and approvals being granted. A flyer will be distributed to the local community providing at least 48 hours in advance notice of the night equipment movement works.

What measures will be put in place to advise the community?

SUBCO will provide notice of the works in print and digital media. Mailbox drops will also occur 48hrs prior to significant works activities for local community closest to the works. Highly visible signage will also be installed at the worksite area informing the local community and passersby of the upcoming works.

What will the impact in the park post completion?

Once the works are complete, the area will be fully reinstated and returfed as necessary. The Beach manhole is installed below ground so nothing will be visible on the top of the ground itself.  There will be no visible permanent features.

 When the cable is ready for installation in early 2027 there will be a small work area re-established to haul the cable onshore from the ocean. A small works area at the site will be set up which is with some machinery required to haul the cable up the bore pipe. Once the cable is pulled onshore, fastened and tested then the pit lids will be reinstalled. The works required to haul the cable onshore are not expected to go for longer than a few days.

Will the project impact on amenity of the area e.g. future tree planting?

The work is classified as being low impact. The beach manholes are installed below ground so there will be no visible permanent features.

Who do I contact if I have any further enquiries?

Our team is available to review any concerns you may have - visit Contact Us - SUBCO

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