The Australian Ports Business and Operations Conference has opened n Townsville, drawing more than 130 maritime and logistics experts to Port of Townsville.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said with the volume of freight moving across Queensland expected to grow more than 20 per cent over the next decade, ports were critical to the state’s economy.

“Our publicly-owned ports are a tremendous asset and our government has recognised the need to invest in them,” Mr Bailey said.

“The Port of Townsville has a proud history stretching back more than 150 years and is about to embark on its biggest expansion ever.

“We’re looking forward to opening its gates and sharing some of that history and the plans ahead with visitors here for Australian Ports Business and Operations Conference.”

The conference began with a tour of the port followed by a demonstration of a pilot transfer by helicopter conducted by Aviator Group.

Port of Townsville chief executive officer Ranee Crosby highlighted the major capacity-expanding projects in the pipeline for the port including the $193 million Channel Upgrade, the $48 million intermodal facility and a $30 million Crane and Cargo Terminal.

The two-day forum will focus on national and international trends in port planning and development, climate change, environmental sustainability initiatives, shipping trends and the role of ports in growing economies and societies.

PHOTO: Ports Australia chief executive Mike Gallacher, Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey, Townsville Port general manager infrastructure Kim Gebers, Townsville Port chief financial officer David Sibley and general manager operations Drew Penny.

• Prev
• Next