The Port of Portland is entering a new era of growth, and is working with governments and the community to ensure the entire region benefits from this growth in volumes.
The Port is the international gateway for the entire Green Triangle Region, handling an estimated $1.5 billion in annual trade - a variety of industry and agriculture. Over the next five to ten years, the Port’s volume is expected to more than double, adding approximately $1 billion in trade value per year.
While a new export commodity – mineral sands – is adding to volumes, the majority of the growth will come from first-time harvesting of blue gum plantations in the Green Triangle Region. Woodchip throughput will grow by 3.5 million tonnes [existing volumes are 1.5 million tonnes] over coming years. This equates to approximately 75 extra ships through the Port each year.
For the local, state and national economies, this means hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity, resulting in employment - both directly and indirect - greater security for existing employment and affordability of better community facilities and services.
To ensure the Port is equipped to handle the growth, the Port has invested in a new woodchip storage facility – the largest of its kind in Australia. As part of the planning process, the Port consulted widely with the community and local stakeholders to refine development plans, working with the local community, Glenelg Shire Council and the Victorian Government. Implementation of the facility will begin during 2009.
The Port also worked with the Victorian Government to develop an Environmental Management Plan, for the development. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of noise, storm water quality, dust and traffic impacts will ensure the community and the local environment is protected.
The future looks bright for the Port and the Portland community, as the Port continues to grow in harmony with the community and serve the region’s needs.
| Current vs Future Trade |
| Commodity |
Tonnes ('000)
|
Tonnes ('000)
|
Tonnes ('000)
|
| |
(30/06/08) |
Low Estimate
|
High Estimate
|
| Forestry Products |
1,407 |
2,950
|
4,850
|
Smelter Products
|
1,085
|
1,100
|
1,650
|
Grain
|
9
|
500
|
1,000
|
Fertiliser
|
452
|
350
|
500
|
Mineral Sands
|
2000
|
200
|
350
|
Other
|
104
|
50
|
100
|
TOTAL
|
3,258 |
5,150
|
8,450
|
Source: Port of Portland - Portland Land Use Strategy
|
|
