NQBP’s Port of Mackay to boost local economy

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Nicolas Fertin said that the projects will strengthen Mackay port’s capabilities to handle diversified trade.

“The State Government, through NQBP, has approved a AUS$17 million package of infrastructure works that will boost the regional economy and increase opportunities for attracting trade to the region,” Fertin said.

“The projects include construction of a new tug berth facility; upgrades to Wharves 1 and 4; seawall repairs; and essential maintenance dredging.

“Additionally, we will be investing in upgrading the Hay Point administration building that houses Vessel Traffic Services.

“The creation of a tug berth facility inside the port and the wharf works will boost the efficiency of the port for current trade and position the port to continue to grow – whether for new, breakbulk trade or existing commodities such as fuel, sugar, and grain,” Fertin said.

Fertin continued to say that Mackay’s multi-commodity port continues to build momentum in growing and diversifying its trade, with the volumes in the past financial year the second-best on record.

“These works will further strengthen the Port’s role as a key part of the Mackay economy and as a gateway to the central Queensland region,” Fertin said.

“The tenders will be advertised on Q-Tenders and we will be looking to utilise the great local contractors and suppliers that we have in the Mackay region as much as possible.”

Fertin said the planned works build on a range of recent improvements including the construction of laydown areas; installation of accredited quarantine facilities; the building of a new access road (Gudyara Road) and; the creation of dedicated RoRo facilities.

“The Port of Mackay is a place of work for about 360 people each day and is also critical to around 1800 Queensland jobs in mining, agriculture and logistics and facilitates AUS$1.6 billion of trade worldwide,” Fertin said.

“Our ports, like the whole region, have been working hard to deal with the ongoing impacts of COVID-19, and we will continue to work with our customers to progress trade opportunities for regional growth.”

Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/dry-bulk/08092020/nqbps-port-of-mackay-to-boost-local-economy/