Despite the impact of multiple flood events, diversified trade through the Port of Newcastle (PoN) remained robust in 2022, according to latest figures.
And, CEO Craig Carmody believes the results are testament to PoN’s resilience during one of the wettest years in recent memory.
“In the first half of 2022, the Hunter experienced five flood events, which had implications across the supply chain,” he said.
“Unsurprisingly, this contributed to an overall decrease in total import/export trade volumes and ship visits through the Port compared to 2021, handling 145 million tonnes of cargo and recording 4,261 vessel movements in 2022.
“Through a collaborative response and making good use of the David Allan dredger and our new sweeper vessel Lydia, we were able to help reduce the impacts of the floods and return the channel to its designed depth, sooner and safely.”
In spite of the challenges, PoN continued to witness strong trade volumes across a number of key export commodities.
“Meals and grain, predominately to China, Japan and Pakistan recorded a 56% year-on-year increase, buoyed by a rise in the export of sorghum, barley and canola, with 479,000 tonnes shipped through the port in 2022,” executive manager of business development Matthew Swan said.
“Wheat continued to perform strongly, too, the 2.7 million tonnes exported being the second-highest year following 2021.
“PoN also supported major developments in the region with roll-on roll-off and project cargo including wind turbine components for the Rye Park Wind Farm, rail wagons for the Sydney Metro project as well as grain and coal haulers, equipment for the Snowy 2.0 Kurri Power Station, and mining equipment for customers in the Hunter Valley.”
The 2022 trade figures come at an exciting time for Port of Newcastle as it takes significant steps forward in its diversification.
“This year will be an important one for the port and our commitment to build a container terminal in Newcastle,” Mr Carmody said.
“Once the valuation process for the Port of Newcastle Extinguishment of Liability Act is complete, we look forward to a future where businesses right across the Hunter, western and northern NSW can import and export their product through the port more efficiently and cost effectively.
“We’re also taking further steps to secure jobs and the region’s future prosperity by developing a dedicated Clean Energy Precinct that will see the Hunter become a hub for the development, production and export of green energy like hydrogen.”
For more business stories:
- Hunter region outperforms the state on unemployment
- Applications open to revitalise Port of Newcastle precinct
- Visitor Economy Grants to boost Cessnock business sector
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