“Massive expansion” considered for CQ’s Port Alma: Bligh

Gladstone: A study is under way into the feasibility of expanding Central Queensland’s Port Alma into a 30 million tonnes a year coal export facility, Premier Anna Bligh announced today.

Ms Bligh said that following on from detailed investigations into Port Alma’s shipping channel and its potential dredging, Central Queensland Ports Authority (CQPA) and Xstrata Coal are investigating the potential for a massive expansion.

The port currently is used for the importing of explosives and general cargo. Exports of about 200,000 tonnes a year include salt from nearby Bajool, frozen beef and tallow, explosives, scrap metal and general cargo.

“Any possible expansion up to 30 million tonnes a year would require an investment of between $750 million and $1 billion,” she said.

Management and engineering consultants Connell Hatch have been engaged to undertake a $50,000 concept study into Port Alma’s development potential, which is expected to be completed early next year.

“A consideration is having an unloading rail loop off the main north line near Bajool and then shifting the coal 20km, via conveyor over the flats, to the port itself,” Ms Bligh said.

“The location would be ideal for coal tonnage increases from mines in the Surat Basin associated with the Southern Missing Link and the Blackwater Rail System. This will help facilitate the development and export of Xstrata Coal’s Wandoan deposits in the Surat Basin.

“Additional export capacity at Port Alma would put Queensland in a better position to meet the growing global demand for coal.

“The dredging of Port Alma harbour would attract additional trade and ensure its long-term viability and growth. At present Port Alma can only handle vessels up to 35,000 tonnes, but with dredging, vessels of up to 90,000 tonnes could be considered.”

Asian power stations would most likely be the export target for coal through the port.

Member for Fitzroy Jim Pearce MP said he looks forward to hearing recommendations from the concept study.

“There is still a lot of work to be done, but it is exciting that we are looking at possible options for the expansion of Port Alma, which will help development of our region,” Mr Pearce said.

December 18, 2007

More information: Premier’s Office 3224 4500