North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) has delivered strong financial results in 2018/19, while continuing to lead environmental research, develop new trade opportunities and administer a busy community support program.
Total throughput facilitated through NQBP’s ports was 177.5 million tonnes via the ports of Hay Point (118.32 million), Abbot Point (28.9 million), Weipa (27.34 million) and Mackay (2.91 million).
Commenting the latest results, NQBP Chief Executive Officer Nicolas Fertin said that the recent national recognition of NQBP and James Cook University’s integrated marine monitoring program was a testament to the breakthrough environmental work.
NQBP’s innovative research to sustainably manage sediment from dredging culminated in two substantial achievements in 2018/19 with essential dredging completed at both the Port of Weipa and the Port of Hay Point.
At the Port of Hay Point, NQBP successfully obtained dredging permits from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, which carried conditions to ensure the protection of the marine environment within the World Heritage Area.
“The works completed at the Port of Hay Point in May was the first time dredging had taken place in 10 years. During the program, water clarity was kept within natural ranges and there were no affects to turbidity levels,” Mr Fertin said.
“Additionally, we’re proud of the success of the dredging completed at the Port of Weipa in mid-July 2019 completed under additional environmental control measures, innovative commercial solutions and contractual arrangements.”
Mr Fertin also said that NQBP’s business activities continued to support regional economic growth in 2018/19 through direct and indirect employment and the facilitation of trade movements worth $40 billion.