Port of Townsville Limited (POTL) has announced the three companies that have been shortlisted and invited to submit proposals to operate the Berth 4 container and general cargo terminal at Townsville Port.
Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt said of the six submissions received following the EOI in October 2016, the following parties have been invited to submit final proposals:
- Australian Amalgamated Terminals (AAT) Pty Limited
- DP World Australia
- Townsville Bulk Storage and Handling
“This process will secure an operator that will grow Northern Australia’s largest general cargo and container port, and a designated Priority Port in Queensland,” Mr Pitt said.
“The number and quality of submissions received shows the strong industry confidence in Townsville’s future economic growth potential, and the role the Port will play in growing Northern Australia.
“More containers through Townsville means more essential goods can be imported directly to North Queenslanders; it also means local farmers, miners and manufacturers have greater choice for exporting their products to the rest of the world through their closest port.”
Ports Minister Mark Bailey said the upgrade of Berth 4 would double Townsville Port’s container trade capacity.
“The Port of Townsville is a vital and strategic trading port for North Queensland, and is Northern Australia’s largest container, automotive and general cargo port,” Mr Bailey said.
“This project is one of a number of significant initiatives that will cement the Port of Townsville as Northern Australia’s premier trade and logistics hub.
POTL Chief Executive Officer, Ranee Crosby, said that the successful operator of the berth will invest in state-of-the-art cranes and cargo terminal areas, will increase the number of shipping lines calling Townsville, and ensure terminal operations are nationally competitive.
“To cater for growth in trade, in particular containerised and general cargo, POTL is currently undertaking a $40.7 million redevelopment of Berth 4,” Ms Crosby said.
“Construction work commenced in April 2016 and is planned for completion in December 2017.
Minister Assisting the Premier on North Queensland Coralee O’Rourke said the latest milestone for the Port meant more good news for Townsville.
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said he looked forward to the future economic and job opportunities this will deliver for the Townsville region.
“The Berth 4 redevelopment will open up our region even more to trade and investment, meaning a boost to the local economy,” Mr Stewart said.
Member for Thuringowa Aaron Harper said he hoped to see the successful company move in by the end of 2017.
“Submissions from the shortlisted parties are due in June 2017, with a preferred terminal operator expected to be selected by August 2017.”
