Extra Capacity for Port Hedland

The Government of Western Australia has identified ways to increase the shipping capacity in Port Hedland’s channel by 16 per cent over the next three years, Transport Minister Dean Nalder announced last Friday.

According to Nalder, new modelling of the Pilbara Ports Authority and independent maritime engineering company OMC International had pinpointed opportunities to increase the port’s forecast capacity from 495 million tonnes a year to 577 million tonnes.

“The extra capacity is a direct result of port innovations and efficiencies,” Nalder said.

The minister said that the modelling was a powerful tool to evaluate potential port investments and operating scenarios, maximizing throughput at the port.

“The modelling looked at recent operational changes at the port including the use of innovative maritime technology, which has resulted in increased sailing drafts, the shipper’s move to larger and more draft efficient vessels, and the port’s ability to sail more ships on a tide,” he said. “The end result is more efficient shipping for port users and ultimately more royalties back to the State.”

Acknowledging the potential for further growth in shipping tonnages, Mr Nalder encouraged port users to work with the port authority to maximize their terminal efficiencies, landside operations and loading times.

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