GeelongPort is playing a key role in supplying farmers with much needed urea – a nitrogen-based fertiliser commonly used on wheat and canola crops – through boosting supply chain reliability.
GeelongPort has implemented innovative solutions to streamline the importation process, such as a state-of-the-art mobile hopper system enabling seamless movement of exports from ships to suppliers.
This efficient approach not only reduces handling time but also ensures that the supply chain remains robust and responsive to the needs of the agricultural industry.
After a worldwide shortage of urea in 2018, which put pressure on Australia’s agricultural industry, GeelongPort understands the important role it plays in enhancing supply chain reliability.
Urea is widely used in agriculture, and without it Victorian and Southern New South Wales cropping farmers estimate yield losses from winter crops would range from 20 to 50 per cent.
There is a small window for spreading urea on wheat crops, but timing is particularly critical for canola.
GeelongPort states that its significance in this supply chain becomes apparent when considering Australia’s vital role in canola production.
Australia produces 1.9 to 2.7 million tonnes of canola grain each year and is widely regarded for its high-quality canola exports to some significant international markets, including the EU, Japan, China, Pakistan and the UAE.
In 2022-23, GeelongPort facilitated the import of approximately 1.7 million tonnes of fertiliser and anticipates another strong year of fertiliser imports due to the stable demand and tightened near-term global supplies.
GeelongPort General Manager Commercial, Elias Anastasiou, said that he was proud of the organisation’s pivotal role in meeting the demand for urea as it drives agriculture in the region and wider Victoria.
“With a sense of urgency mounting for wheat and canola crops, we recognise the significance of supporting the importation of record fertiliser volumes,” Mr Anastasiou said.
“Innovation propels our operations, and we take great pride in GeelongPort’s status as a world-class port. As we anticipate another year of strong fertiliser imports, we remain committed to sustaining agricultural productivity and contributing to the success of Victorian farmers.”
