Port of Bundaberg shipment marks the start of new trade

The Port of Bundaberg welcomed the first shipment of gypsum on Wednesday morning, marking the start of the production of plasterboard at the Knauf manufacturing plant recently constructed at the port.

Minister for Ports Mark Bailey said this was a significant milestone for the port.

“The arrival of MV Poavosa Wisdom VIII marks the first major import of dry bulk product for the Port of Bundaberg,” Mr Bailey said.

“Not only does this mark the beginning of Knauf’s plasterboard production but also potentially signals new opportunities for other dry bulk import products for the Port of Bundaberg.

“I was here just last month with Member for Bundaberg Leanne Donaldson inspecting works on the $70 million Knauf project  so this exciting  progress with the first shipment being unloaded today.”

Ms Donaldson said the Palaszczuk  Government has also invested $4 million to upgrade the port’s road infrastructure to further bolster the economic success of the Port of Bundaberg.

“Our support for road infrastructure upgrades is necessary to support increased product coming through the Port precinct,” she said.

“This is another example of the Palaszczuk Government supporting Bundaberg and jobs for regional Queensland.

“I welcome today’s milestone and look forward to many more shipments and to the port continuing to be a hive of activity into the future.

“We expect an increase in minerals and bulk commodity trade through the port, including sugar, silica sands and wood pellets, as well as new industries wanting to be near existing operators like Knauf’s plasterboard manufacturing facility.”

Port of Bundaberg Manager Jason Pascoe said a gypsum shipment is expected every two to three months at the port.

“GPC is continually working with the government, industry and the community to explore development opportunities within the Port of Bundaberg and are excited by the future prospects todays shipment brings.”

ENDS

Media contact: Zoe Russell - 0428 079 640