Port of Mackay trade hits over 3 million tonnes

The Port of Mackay is heading for a record-equalling year of trade, the best in 10 years, as the Palaszczuk Government’s economic recovery powers on.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert today visited the Port  which is a critical supply link for the local and state economy.

“The Port of Mackay has clocked up more than three million tonnes of cargo so far this financial year which - 24 per cent growth on the same time as last year,” the Premier said.

“It’s on track to reach more than 3.3 million tonnes by the end of June which would equal its record trade and be the most in the last decade.

“The Port of Mackay is an essential gateway linking Central Queensland to the world, servicing mining and agricultural industries and a critical supply link for the economic powerhouse of the Bowen Basin.

“A strong port means jobs and a strong economy for the region. It supports 2,100 trade jobs and pumps $3.5 billion into the economy.”

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said the great result at the Port of Mackay was underpinned by strong mining and agricultural industries in the region.

“The Port’s top three traded commodities are fuel, sugar, and breakbulk,” Ms Gilbert said.

“Breakbulk cargo volumes in the year to date are also 25 per cent higher than the same period last year.

“In April alone, we saw more than 250,000 tonnes of cargo go through the Port – going from strength to strength at every step.”

The Premier also announced that Queensland-based V2R Projects has been awarded a $4 million contract to upgrade one of the Ports wharves.

“This $4 million upgrade will see the western approach deck to Wharf Five removed and replaced – building better infrastructure for the port,” the Premier said.

“This project will be directly supporting 30 local jobs and create a pipeline of work across regional Queensland.”

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said it was thanks to the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to keeping Queensland ports in the hands of Queenslanders, we’re seeing the dividend flow through where it’s needed.

“Having strong, state-owned assets doing so well, year on year, despite the global disruptions is fantastic to see,” he said.

“While we expect to see some impacts due to global supply chain disruptions, the central drivers supporting trade in the region surrounding the Port of Mackay remain strong.”

North Queensland Bulk Ports is a Queensland Government-owned corporation also responsible for the strategic ports of Abbot Point, Hay Point and Weipa in far north Queensland.

For more information on all NQBP’s projects visit www.nqbp.com.au

ENDS

Media contact: Jack Harbour – 0419 620 447