Residents living near the Ports of Mackay and Hay Point are encouraged to nominate for a seat on North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) community reference groups (CRGs).

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the CRGs, which have been running for almost 20 years, provided an invaluable link between the port authority and its communities.

“The Port of Mackay and Hay Point are critical to around 22,000 Queensland jobs in mining, agriculture and logistics and facilitate $1.8 billion of trade worldwide,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“The community is a key strategic stakeholder for our ports, so their input is vital. Mackay and Hay Point communities are an integral part of NQBP ports.”

NQBP chief executive officer Nicolas Fertin said the CRGs provided a forum for NQBP and community members to discuss and raise issues relating to port operations and development.

“NQBP CRGs enables members to provide feedback, raise any concerns and to share how we can work together to improve our port communities,” he said.

“I would also like to acknowledge our current CRG members, who volunteered for their time, commitment and passion over the last three years.”

Six positions, including three community representatives, one local marina resident and two recreational group (boating, surfing or fishing) representatives, are available on the Port of Mackay CRG.

Eight positions are available for community representatives and interest group representatives on the Port of Hay Point CRG.

Nominations close 5pm Friday January 29, 2021. For more information and to apply, visit NQBP’s website (www.nqbp.com.au) or Mackay office at Level 1, Waterfront Place, Mulherin Drive, Mackay Harbour.

PIC: NQBP chief executive officer Nicolas Fertin is urging people to nominate for port community reference groups.