Mega container ship due to arrive in Brisbane

The Port of Brisbane is about to play host to the longest container ship to ever visit Queensland.

Main Roads Road Safety and Ports Minister, Mark Baily said the arrival today of the 347metre Susan Maersk was clear demonstration of the port’s capabilities in handling an increasing number of large vessels operating in the region.

“The visit of the Susan Maersk is only made possible thanks to extensive studies that have taken place over the last two years, to optimise the port’s channels to accommodate this class of vessel,” Mr Bailey said.

“The vessel’s movements have already been thoroughly rehearsed in our world-class ship simulator Smartship by both Maritime Safety Queensland and Brisbane Marine Pilots and our vessel traffic service operators have the technology to closely monitor its every movement from entry to the shipping channel through to docking.

“Fortunately everyone has had prior experience in operations of this scale thanks to the first visit of a mega-container ship which visited Brisbane less than 12 months ago. 

“These larger ships are taking a leading role in servicing key trade routes and the State is well positioned to take advantage of the efficiencies these vessels offer.”

Member for Lytton Joan Pease said in November last year the Port of Brisbane marked a milestone event with the arrival the containership Lloyd Don Carlos.

“At 334 metres in length it was slightly shorter than our latest visitor which will now takes the title of longest container vessel,” she said.

“More importantly there will be further visits from vessels on this scale which can only enhance the Port of Brisbane’s international reputation and place it in a highly competitive position in the global trade market.

“The Susan Maersk isn’t the only record breaker – it’s no coincidence the Port of Brisbane is also setting new trading benchmarks.

“The Port handled a record number of containers in 2016-17 moving 1.22 million twenty-foot equivalent units (TEUs) through across its wharves which was an increase of almost seven percent on the previous year’s result.

“This is not only good news for the Port but also for Queensland and the nation.

“We look forward to further visits by these larger ships which are an eye-catching demonstration of the importance of our trading ports and the increasing sophistication of their operations.”

PBPL’s Chief Executive Officer Roy Cummins said the Port of Brisbane was determined to ensure its capacity for catering for larger vessels continues to grow.

“Congratulations to the captain, pilot, harbour master and tug operators, as well as our own operational team at the Port of Brisbane for successfully overseeing the Susan Maersk's visit,” Mr Cummins said.

“Our new channel clearance system (NCOS) has been in place since August, and this record-breaking visit by the Susan Maersk is testament to its capability.

“It means that we can more safely and accurately determine the under keel clearance needed to cater for larger vessels.

“By implementing NCOS and working with our partners, we are delivering on our commitment to never be the limiting factor for shipping on the east coast of Australia.”

The Susan Maersk is scheduled to dock alongside Fisherman Island wharf number 9 about 11.30am today.   

ENDS

Media contact: Chris Vernon - 0416 800 004