The Port of Brisbane will receive the longest container ship to ever visit Queensland.
Minister for Main Roads, Road Safety and Ports, Mark Bailey, said the arrival of the 347m Susan Maersk was a 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 2016 the Port of Brisbane marked a milestone event with the arrival the containership Lloyd Don Carlos.
“At 334m in length it was slightly shorter than our latest visitor which will now takes the title of longest container vessel,” Ms Pease 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) 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.”
Port Of Brisbane’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.”
