Every Challenge. Met.
Port of Melbourne Welcomes Patrick Crane Investment Full story page 10
Ship Loading - Unloading Equipment including Crane Loading Feature See Pages 10-20 Modern Technology to Boost PNG Ports Operations in Future Story - Page 18
National Oil Spill Exercise Story Pages 6-9
Creation of new shipping fairways off WA Coast
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ECENTLY the Hon Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport announced the creation of a network of Shipping Fairways off the north-west coast of Australia designed to improve the safe movement of ships in the area and protect our precious marine environment.
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For busy shipping routes, it’s important we continue to increase navigational safety and reduce the risk of ship groundings and collisions.
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A collision in this area could potentially result in a loss of life or damage to our pristine marine environment.
With an expected doubling of shipping activity by 2020 we are planning for the future while protecting what we have today. Since 2007, we have expanded the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel Traffic
Above: Anthony Albanese MP, Minister for Infrastructure and Transport
Service (REEFVTS), established North East Shipping Management Group and proposed greater protections around Ningaloo Reef - all measures designed to provide a safe passage for ships and protect and preserve our precious marine environment. Vessels will begin to use the Shipping Fairways when electronic and paper navigational charts are progressively updated from August 2012 onwards.
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Page 2 - Australian Ports News
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That is exactly what the new network of Shipping Fairways will do. Together, they will reduce the risk of collision by directing large vessels such as bulk carriers and LNG ships into pre-defined routes to keep them clear of offshore infrastructure such as oil and gas rigs.
This announcement builds on this Government’s record of ensuring that the laws and other arrangements that protect Australia’s precious marine environment are up to date and remain in step with international developments.
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Commercial shipping is vital to our economy and with industrial and mining activity on the increase in Western Australia, so too is shipping.
The new Shipping Fairways are based on similar ship routeing arrangements in Australia and overseas that have proven successful in reducing the risk of collision.
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In this issue: • Ports News
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State-of-the-art Operations Centre for Port of Newcastle Page 4 Port Capacity Project gets underway Page 5 National Oil Spill Exercise Pages 6-9 Ship Loading-Unloading Equipment and Crane Loading Equipment Feature Pages 10-20 Ports News Works set to commence on $7 million Cruise & Antarctic Hub Page 21 Hydrographic Survey Feature Pages 22--25 MARINE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS for Port Development and Maritime Engineering Investigations Page 22 Swathe Invests in the R2Sonic2024 Echo Sounder Page 24 The REAL DEAL in Hydrographic Surveing Page 25 Ports news Port Hedland Pilotage Services Setting the Benchmark - Port Hedland Pilots Gain ISPO Certification Page 26 Transcript of Doorstop Page 27 Ports News Page 28
Every Challenge. Met.
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Australian Ports News - Page 3
Ports News
State-of-the-art Port Hedland Port Operations Centre 1 Million Tonnes on a for Port of Newcastle Single Tide T
HE Port Hedland Port Authority has achieved yet another significant milestone, by breaking the Port record for the number of vessels and weight of cargo on a single tide.
Above: NSW Minister for Roads and Ports, Duncan Gay (right), and Chairman of Newcastle Port Corporation, Paul Jeans (centre), officially open the Port Centre while accompanied by Member for Newcastle, Tim Owen AM
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SW Ports Minister Duncan Gay recently officially opened the Port of Newcastle’s new $3.5 million operations centre housing state-of-the-art maritime vessel tracking systems. “The Port of Newcastle is recognised as being the world’s largest coal export port and an economic driver for the Hunter Region,” Mr Gay said. “This modern building ensures Newcastle Port Corporation will maintain its operational excellence and be able to handle increasing exports and imports,” he said. “Newcastle Port Corporation just announced a record 12th consecutive trade record and about 4,150 vessel movements on an annual basis. “It is this type of momentum that deserves modern facilities for a highly competent and professional group of operational employees.” Member for Newcastle Tim Owen said the three-storey ‘Port Centre’ is built on the eastern side of the Pilot Station near the entrance to the Newcastle harbour. “The building has been designed to provide greater functionality for operational activities and houses a Vessel Traffic Information Centre, Marine Pilots’ office, Port Services offices, a training room, workshops and other facilities,” Mr Owen said. Construction started in 2011 and Vessel Traffic Information officers have been familiarising themselves with new equipment and systems to maintain 24 hour a day communication with vessels and port operators.
Above: Minister Duncan Gay “Newcastle Port Corporation has been increasing both employee numbers and facilities to handle the expanding trade through the port,” said Minister Gay. “The old operations centre was a two-storey building constructed in 1959. It underwent a number of modifications before no longer being capable of accommodating operational services required for a port the size of Newcastle.” The port’s 2011-12 trade throughput was 128.6 million tonnes, an increase of 13.6 million tonnes on the previous financial year. Increased trade was recorded for aluminium, coal, fuels, general and bulk cargoes, grains, mineral concentrates and steel products. Imports and exports are forecast to reach 250 million tonnes in more than 40 commodities by 2020.
Above: A bulk carrier at Port. (Photo courtesy of Port Hedland Port Authority “Through precise planning and outstanding execution by the whole operations team, the Port is pleased to announce that it has managed the departure of six vessels on a single tide (Monday 18 June 2012) for the first time in its history.” said PHPA Harbour Master, John Finch. With a combined total cargo of 1,040,062 tonnes, the Port has also beaten the previous port record for cargo shipped on a single tide (which was only set two weeks ago on the 4 June 2012) by 92,287 tonnes. Port Hedland Port Authority has its sights set on the future with its claim that the inner harbour has a throughput capacity of 500mtpa Achieving such tonnages will require multiple cape size ships sailing on every tide throughout the year. The Port Authority management working with the Ports Marine Pilots, Towage Service Providers, Shipping Schedulers and Vessel Traffic Officers has been refining processes and procedures over the past two years to increase safely the number of vessels able to sail on a single tide. The port now regularly achieves five tidally constrained ships sailing on a single tide with throughput tonnages approaching 1 million tonnes. “The proficiency of the Port’s world-class Pilots and towage service, as managed through the PHPA’s Marine Operations Team, has yet again demonstrated the ports excellent operational capability, and its capacity to rise to the challenge.” added Captain Finch.
Flinders Ports acquires sole ownership of the Adelaide Container Terminal
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Above: The new $3.5 million Port Centre at the Port of Newcastle Page 4 - Australian Ports News
OUTH AUSTRALIA’s only container terminal, located at Outer Harbor in Adelaide’s north-west, is now under the sole control of Australia’s leading private port operator, Flinders Ports. Flinders Ports – which is the private operator of the Port of Adelaide and six other SA ports – announced it had purchased 60 per cent of the Adelaide Container Terminal business from DP World South Australia. Three years ago, Flinders Ports acquired a 40 per cent stake in the business, which handles 260,000 containers a year. The full ownership takes effect immediately, with the terminal business to be renamed Flinders Adelaide Container Terminal. “We are delighted with the acquisition as it now provides a seamless operation across the port and allows for integrated infrastructure planning,” Flinders Port Holdings Chief Executive Officer, Mr Vincent Tremaine, said. “In recent years, we have invested heavily in the container terminal, and the general surrounds. “In 2005, Flinders Ports joined forces with the State Government in a $45 million commitment to deepen the main shipping channel to give larger ships access to the container terminal. “We have also redeveloped the container terminal’s berth precinct, including extending its length so two of these larger vessels can berth concurrently. “And last year the terminal commissioned a new post panamax container crane to further improve the efficiencies of loading and unloading containers at the terminal.” Mr Tremaine said the financial details of the deal are confidential.
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Port Capacity Project gets underway P
ORT of Melbourne Corporation’s (PoMC’s) $1.6 billion redevelopment of Webb Dock is advancing with the awarding of civil and maritime design contracts. The expansion of capacity at the Port of Melbourne, which is Australia’s largest container, automotive and general cargo port was announced by the Victorian Premier, Mr Ted Baillieu and the Minister for Ports, Dr Denis Napthine in April this year. PoMC Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Bradford, today announced the appointment of two consultants who will be responsible for the delivery of detailed designs for the project’s internal roads, services infrastructure, interface buffers and maritime engineering services. “This is an important first step in the redevelopment of Webb Dock which is the site for Melbourne’s third international container terminal and a new world class automotive facility”, Mr Bradford said. PoMC’s Expression of Interest and tender processes attracted an enormous amount of interest. Mr Bradford stated that the submissions received displayed a high level of technical expertise and demonstrated a strong competitive focus. The evaluation processes determined that the contract for civil engineering design services be awarded to Aurecon Australia Pty Limited. The scope of the civil works includes detail design of internal roads, interface buffers site preparation works and services infrastructure.
PoMC also advised the appointment of Arup Pty Limited to provide maritime engineering consulting services for the project’s extensive maritime works. The maritime program includes re-engineering the existing wharves at Webb Dock East, dredging and the design of a new 920 metre wharf for the port’s automotive trade which will be consolidated into a new world class facility at Webb Dock West. “Aurecon & Arup both have an excellent track record for designing and delivering large scale infrastructure with a focus on innovation and sustainability – their worldwide experience will help to create the innovative design outcomes we are seeking for Webb Dock” Mr Bradford said.
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Australian Ports News - Page 5
National Oil Spill Exercise Exercise Sea Dragon: 5-7 June, 2012
THE Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) in collaboration with the Victorian Department of Transport and the Australian Marine Oil Spill Centre (AMOSC) developed and conducted a major marine pollution exercise in Western Port, Victoria.
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XERCISE SEA DRAGON Phase 2 was conducted on 5 - 7 June 2012 and was based on 1000 tonnes of crude oil being released in Western Port after a tanker ran aground. The exercise involved over 200 exercise participants, control staff and observers. Participants included representatives from the Commonwealth, jurisdictions and the maritime industry. The exercise was a large scale deployment involving operational strategy development through an Incident Management Team, and tactical operations conducted in shoreline, marine, aviation and wildlife responses. The purpose of this exercise was to examine and improve Australia’s collective response arrangements to tier 3 marine oil spills. Tactical considerations requiring action in field operational deployments included:
Above: Planning air observation and dispersant application. Below: In the Incident Coordination Centre.
Shoreline • • • • •
Shorelines are adequately assessed and shoreline assessment & response plan developed Develop forward operating base Deployment of boom shoreline protection Establish beach clean-up activities Recovery of oily waste & equipment
Marine • •
Conduct offshore containment & recovery operations Conduct protective booming operations
Aviation • • • •
Fixed wing aerial dispersant planning Airbase management Fixed wing Aerial Dispersant Application Operations Demobilisation of aviation operations
Wildlife • • • •
Development of Wildlife Incident Action Plan (WIAP) Land based search & rescue Marine search & rescue Treatment & rehabilitation centre
Page 6 - Australian Ports News
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National Oil Spill Exercise
Victoria’s coastal waters hosts major pollution spill response exercise
Exercise Sea Dragon: 5-7 June, 2012
JOINT MEDIA STATEMENT Anthony Albanese Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister
Dr Dennis Napthine Minister for Ports
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UR NATIONAL preparedness to deal with major oil and other pollution spills was put to the test in the waters off the Victorian coast. Exercise Sea Dragon was conducted in Western Port Bay in June by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and the Victorian Department of Transport, with support from the Australian Marine Oil Spills Centre. “Australia has some of the most pristine coastal waters on the planet and oil spillage from damaged ships has the capacity to wreak massive environmental damage,” says Mr Albanese. “Vigilance and ‘being prepared’ are our best protection,” he says. “Exercise Sea Dragon is a great example of cross-agency collaboration as we test our ability to handle a pollution spill,” says Victoria’s Ports Minister, Denis Napthine. “It allows us to test our preparedness and identify areas for improvement.” The exercise will be a mock marine
The Hon Anthony Albanese MP
pollution scenario and will be played out in Western Port Bay and at several locations on shore. Western Port Bay is the home of the active commercial Port of Hastings and the region also has extensive outcrops of mangroves, sea grasses and three national parks. Commercial and recreational boating and fishing are very popular in Western Port Bay and the area attracts many tourists throughout the year. The public might notice increased activity during the exercise with an aircraft fly-over, personnel in protective equipment and simulated clean up activity. Operational exercises such as Exercise Sea Dragon are routinely conducted around the nation’s coastal waters by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, State and Territory authorities and industry, as part of the National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil and other Hazardous and Noxious Substances.
Top: Deploying containment and recovery equipment in Western Port Victoria. Above: Map showing exercise area. Right: Centre Shoreline Operations. Below left: Helicopter used for air observation and dispersant attack guidance. Below right: Fixed Wing Aircraft – used in dispersant spraying
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Australian Ports News - Page 7
Spill Tech leads the way in oil spill responses O N THE 18th March 1967 the super tanker, Torrey Canyon struck Pollard’s Rock just off the English coast and the contents of around 860,000 barrels of oil were released into the sea. It is regarded as the world’s first major marine oil spill and at the time the collateral damage was devastating. The oil created a 270 square mile oil slick that, at the very least, killed thousands of sea birds and polluted large areas of the English and French coastline.
Although it wasn’t the first marine oil spill and unfortunately not the last, the impact of the Torrey Canyon disaster inspired many to find new and better ways to respond to such emergencies, including a young John Eddy who, determined to bring the best oil spill response technology to Australia, would later establish his company Spill Tech. “At the time, the Torrey Canyon disaster was certainly a wake-up call and there were some valuable lessons learnt. Importantly, the speed of the response is critical and you must always be prepared for such an emergency with the right response equipment ready to go at a moment’s notice. When I established Spill Tech in 1981, I was determined to find the most proven and effective ways to support those organisations that operate in the front line to protect Australia’s environment when oils slicks occur. I believe that we’ve achieved that goal and the products we supply have proven to be the best in the world. Names
Page 8 - Australian Ports News
like Nofi, Desmi and Dasic are world leaders in the fight against environmental damage caused by oil slicks.” John Eddy knows his subject very well and has been involved in the marine industry since the seventies. Prior to concentrating on oil spill responses John sold dredgers and dredging equipment, which also provided John with an opportunity to research the
environmental consequences of oils spills and the range of available responses. Today, Spill Tech supplies everything to combat oil slicks from the smallest rake to the largest booms with integrated skimmers. Recently the company was awarded a contract to supply a substantial amount of equipment to the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
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The emergency ‘ready to use’ response equipment will be placed at the various AMSA bases strategically located around Australia to combat marine oil spills. Similar equipment has been supplied to Chevron for its LNG plants in Western Australia at Gorgon and Wheatstone. At the heart of Spill Tech’s success over many years is the range of products it can supply. Spill Tech also has exclusive arrangements with the world’s leading manufacturers, companies like Norway’s Allmaritim, Denmark’s Desmi and Dasic, Ayles Fernie and Fasteng in the UK. Then there’s Kvichik/Marco and Canflex in the US as well as Canadyne in Canada. Significantly, these are all companies that have been at the forefront for many years, leading the way in research and development to create efficient, state of the art oil spill solutions. Allmaritim produce the range of Nofi products and in particular the Current Buster range. There’s a model to suit any particular oil slick emergency, from the Current Buster 6 which has been tested and proven to work in rough seas to the Current Buster 2 which is ideal for port and harbour use and it can be towed behind a fishing vessel. All Current Busters are equipped with special Boom Vanes to make them a one vessel towing operation. Then there’s the ‘fast response’ Boom Bag which can be launched from the dockside or towed by a small power boat. Dasic is a UK company which specialises in dispersant and in particular the range of Slickgone products. For instance, Slickgone EW is highly efficient with low toxicity and is ideal for dispersing oils too weathered and too viscous for conventional dispersants. Slickgone NS is the most popular Type 3, concentrated dispersant in the world and for use in rivers and lakes Dasic has developed Slickgone Freshwater Dispersant which disperses oil efficiently in low to zero salinity waterways.
A quicker, more effective response to oil spills N Denmark is home for Desmi, a company which produces a comprehensive range of oil recovery equipment for use in the sea, lakes, rivers and harbours, including a range of skimmers in a variety of sizes. The company also produces the Ro-Boom for oil spill containment. Spill Tech is the exclusive agent for all of these manufacturers and supplies the Australian, New Zealand and South West Pacific regions with their products. The fact that Spill Tech has been selected by these companies is a further compliment to the Australian company. It also highlights the wealth of expertise and the range of leading products at Spill Tech’s disposal. Human error is a fact of life and oil spills will continue to plague this planet but it’s good to know that, here in Australia, we have the means through Spill Tech to respond to such emergencies quickly and efficiently with tested and proven responses. For more information about the Spill Tech range visit; www.spilltech.com.au
EW state-of-the-art equipment to clean up oil spills more quickly and effectively is being rolled out across nine ports around the country. The equipment, worth some $13.5 million, will be delivered to National Resource Centres in Sydney, Melbourne, Devonport, Adelaide, Perth, Dampier, Darwin, Townsville and Brisbane. In the last decade, we have seen more ships on our waters thanks to increased mining and industrial activity. With increased
activity comes increased risks and we need to address the risks associated with these changing shipping patterns, particularly in north-Western Australia and the Great Barrier Reef. While oil spills rarely happen, they can have catastrophic consequences, particularly in pristine environments such as the Great Barrier Reef. Incidents such as Pacific Adventurer in 2009 and Shen Neng 1 in 2010 remind us of the huge risks that oil spills can present to the environment It’s critical we’re able to respond to such incidents quickly and effectively to minimise the impact on our marine environment and reduce the impact to industries and communities. The new equipment is state-of-the-
The Hon Anthony Albanese MP
art, allows for more effective clean ups in a wider range of conditions. We’ll be able to clean more oil, more quickly and in rougher water. Additionally, mobile wildlife cleaning facilities will equip authorities with the ability to better clean wildlife affected by oil spills. The rollout includes 18 dispersant spray systems, 31 skimmers (oil recovery systems) and 13 kilometres of boom (oil containment systems). Six new oil sweep systems have also been purchased which will allow for oil spills to be cleaned up in a wider range of sea conditions. The new equipment is part of our five-year program to upgrade the nation’s stockpile of oil spill response equipment. The Australian Government’s Review of the National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil and Other Noxious and Hazardous Substances focuses on the partnership with the shipping industry, which recognises the need to protect Australia’s marine environment.
Leading the response to Oil Spills
BS 100 Afedo Dispersant Pump Set
Ro-Boom
Current Buster 6
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Tel: +61 (0) 7 5447 1222 Fax: +61 (0) 7 5447 1226 Mob: +61 (0) 419 999 019
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Australian Ports News - Page 9
Port of Melbourne welcomes Patrick crane investment
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OMMUTERS on the West Gate Bridge witnessed a spectacular sight recently when the purpose built vessel, Zhen Hua 26, passed under the bridge with a 104.5m high new Ship to Shore container crane aboard for delivery to Patrick’s East Swanson Dock terminal. The vessel was guided by two sea pilots as it made its way up the Yarra River before completing a 180 degree turn to berth at the northern end of East Swanson Dock. The massive crane, which is able to service even larger vessels calling at Melbourne, has been purchased by Patrick Corporation and represents a significant investment in Australasia’s largest container port. In a carefully planned operation coordinated by Port of Melbourne Corporation’s (PoMC’s) shipping and navigation team, together with Patrick’s Operations team and Port Phillip Sea Pilots, the vessel passed under the West Gate Bridge at low tide with 2.4 metres clearance. Welcoming the crane, PoMC Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Bradford, said: “I congratulate Patrick on their initiative and foresight in undertaking this substantial capital investment which will ultimately boost the productivity at the busiest container port in the nation. “As vessel sizes increase, the port needs the accompanying infrastructure to handle those vessels efficiently. “This investment helps meet that need and we are delighted to welcome this Patrick crane as an essential piece of infrastructure to help load and unload the 7000 containers this port handles daily.”
DP World unveils state-of- Melbourne records strong the-art training facility trade result
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Above: The new simulator in Quay Crane mode
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ONTAINER CRANE operators in Brisbane will be the first in Australia to use an Advanced Virtual Training Simulator at DP World’s Brisbane terminal, with the new high-tech system introduced this month. The training simulator, the only one of its kind in the Australian stevedoring industry, will allow trainees and existing employees to practice the operation of different container handling equipment used onsite. Announcing the new training facility, Senior Vice President and Managing Director DP World ANZ Region, Ganesh Raj said the training and technology upgrade in Brisbane is in line with DP World’s continued focus on employee learning and development in 2012. “Ongoing professional development increases productivity and helps us maintain our global competitiveness to attain the best possible outcomes across our Australian operations. An on-site simulator not only allows us to train new employees in different modes and environments, but also to conduct refresher training,” Mr Raj said. Director and General Manager, DP World Page 10 - Australian Ports News
Brisbane Mark Hulme said safety was paramount on the Australian waterfront. “With the help of the new simulator, our stevedoring employees/licensed crane operators will be able to ensure the continued proficient operation of terminal equipment for our customers, removing risks during training to other terminal employees and potential damage to plant and equipment. “Trainees and stevedores practice in a virtual environment where they manoeuvre containers with outside factors including wind and tight spaces being taken into account as well targeted time frames that need to be met. “The facility will simulate both the current and future terminal layouts, including two crane types; the Ship to Shore Container Cranes operating in both single and twin lift, Ship’s Crane (Pedestal, for break bulk cargo such as steel and timber) and Sprinter Straddle capable of transporting 20 foot and 40 foot shipping containers within the terminal environment,” Mr Hulme said. DP World has further plans to roll out this new technology across its network of container terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide and Fremantle over the next 18 months.
ICTORIAN PREMIER Ted Baillieu and Minister for Ports Dr Denis Napthine joined Port of Melbourne Corporation Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Bradford, to announce strong trade growth figures for the Port of Melbourne Trade surged in the 2011-12 financial year with a 9.1 per cent overall increase at Australasia’s busiest container and general cargo port. Total port trade grew to 87 million revenue tonnes up from 79.7 million revenue tonnes in the previous year. This included a 7.8 per cent increase in total container throughput with the Port of Melbourne handling 2.58 million twenty-foot equivalent units. “It is particularly pleasing to note that in the face of a high Australian Dollar and floods in the northern part of the state, our local producers made a strong contribution to this growth with full container exports increasing by 9.8 per cent. Container imports also increased by 7.1 per cent on the previous year,” Mr Baillieu said. Chief Executive Officer, Stephen Bradford, said the port is handling more than a million extra containers each year than it did a decade
ago, equivalent to 7,000 containers a day on average. “With an increase in throughput of 7.8 per cent in 2011-12, container growth is ahead of the long-term average of around 6.5 per cent over the last decade,” Mr Bradford said. “Strong growth presents new challenges which is why PoMC is preparing to deliver the largest landside port development project in a generation to expand the port’s container and automotive capacity.” The summary of trade figures at the Port of Melbourne includes: • Total trade up 9.1 per cent to 87 million revenue tonnes • Total container throughput up 7.8 per cent to 2.58 million TEU • Full container exports up 9.8 per cent • Full container imports up 7.1 per cent Dry bulk up 20.9 per cent to 4.2 million revenue tonnes • Liquid bulk up 21.5 per cent to 6.4 million revenue tonnes • Total motor vehicles up 4.5 per cent • New automotive imports/exports to 356,000 units
Above: (left to right): Minister for Ports Denis Napthine and Premier Ted Baillieu hosted by PoMC CEO, Stephen Bradford, to announce Melbourne’s strong trading results
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Page Macrae makes cargo handling easier and more efficient
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NE OF the biggest names in ship loading and unloading equipment in the Australasian region is Page Macrae Engineering. Known for advanced design in cargo handling equipment, the company recently completed an order for a major Australian client for two discharge hoppers and two diesel hydraulic grabs. This followed the outstanding success of a previous order two years ago from the same customer, for three grabs and two hoppers. Their original acquisition has helped the client to achieve impressive handling efficiencies and ship turnaround times, while meeting everincreasing environmental compliance standards for dust emission. Needless to say, they’re pretty happy about that, says Cargo Handling manager Bruce Ennis. Thanks largely to the efficiency and durability of their package solutions for loading and unloading equipment, and their ability to custom design and manufacture machinery for specific tasks, Page Macrae have experienced strong growth in bulk grab and hopper sales in recent years. Factors behind that growth are easy to see, as their innovative grabs and hoppers handle a large range of products including fertilisers, clinker, palm kernel, grains, soda ash, mineral concentrates and sand. With Australia in the midst of a major boom in exports of iron ore, bauxite, coal and other minerals, the name Page Macrae Engineering is gaining much attention from decision-makers when it comes to purchasing new equipment. That’s not just because of the innovative design of the brand’s products, but because of Page Macrae’s reputation for supplying equipment that can provide productivity gains, low operating costs and highly efficient dust and pollution control measures. Their strong reputation for outstanding service and technical assistance has also helped the company win business overseas and in its home market.
Above: A mechanical grab in action, unloading a ship in Port of Napier, New Zealand
“We are particularly proud of the strong relationships we have built with all of our clients. We can provide a 24 hour service and can dispatch service personnel quickly, whenever and wherever they’re needed,� says Mr Ennis. “For instance we recently sent an engineer to assist a client in the United States who needed an urgent solution to a cargo handling problem. Within a day and a half the problem had been solved and our engineer was on his way back to New Zealand. “We keep in touch with our clients, including travelling to their sites, to ensure we keep ourselves up to date with their operations, checking to make sure that their equipment is working the way they want it to and to advise them of our new products and their capabilities�. One of those new products is set to attract plenty of attention: With increasingly strict environmental controls in place at ports in Australia, New Zealand, and around the world, Page Macrae Engineering has refined its hopper design with a new product that integrates a dust collection system with the hopper. Previously the two units were separate, and the dust collection system had to be moved to wherever the hopper happened to be working on the wharf. “It’s a new evolution in our line of equipment
and it completes our dust controlled hopper package,� says Mr Ennis. Efficient dust emission control is a big feature of the company’s range of discharge hoppers, which provide ship-to-hopper spillage recovery, dust controlled inflow chutes and a choice of onboard or separate dust collection. Page Macrae’s PMGrabs-branded range of diesel/hydraulic grabs is perfect for unloading and loading jobs demanding low operating height and minimum noise emissions. They are also ideal for working in difficult discharge situations because like the PMGrabs-branded wire and chain grabs, they incorporate features to cut the risk of environmental impact from product spills and produce low dust emissions. Operated via remote control by a crane operator, the PMGrab range of diesel-hydraulic grabs are designed to discharge large volumes of bulk material from ships’ holds. They can carry up to 20t of material at a time, discharging hundreds of tonnes per hour and allowing stevedores and shipping companies to save valuable time and money, says Mr Ennis. Incorporating special features to control spillage, noise and dust emissions, the grabs also provide operators with significant gains in productivity. The company’s range of wire or chain mechanical grabs stand out for their low operating costs, exceptional productivity and high digging capacity. They feature a unique overlapping blade seal that seals the material being transported, preventing leakage and solving a major headache for cargo handlers. Mr Ennis says Page Macrae works closely with clients in coming up with cargo handling solutions for their specific requirements. That innovative “can do� approach also helps Page Macrae Engineering stay ahead of the game in a competitive global market. The company is particularly adept at tailoring equipment to suit specific needs, which sometimes
Above: The ‘complete package’: one of Page Macrae’s diesel hydraulic grabs unloading a ship into the company’s dust controlled hopper
means designing and manufacturing custom discharge systems, Mr Ennis says. “Our clients don’t always know exactly what they want, but they do know the outcome they require. We tailor-make solutions for those outcomes and provide any advice or technical support they might need.� Page Macrae Engineering’s aptitude for innovation in the bulk cargo equipment field and the market-leading quality and durability of its products put it in the spotlight in 2010, when it won a premium award in the annual Australian Bulk Handling Awards in Brisbane. Based near the Port of Tauranga at Mount Maunganui on the east coast of the North Island, the 55-year-old company won the Innovative Technology category for its diesel-hydraulic grabs in the face of competition from some of the world’s leading manufacturers. Bulk cargo handling equipment designed and manufactured at the company’s premises includes log lifters, container spreaders, container loading equipment, over-height spreaders, spreader beams, remote and manual release multi-lifters, lifting cages and lifting beams.
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EMAIL: enquiries@page-macrae.com WEB: www.page-macrae.com.au www.austportsnews.com.au
Australian Ports News - Page 11
Because of the confined space at Port Kembla, a truck unloader and 2 telescopic radial stackers were set up in a Z-pattern to provide both truck access and the height to load coke into the ship
For this wheat and sorghum loading project at Gladstone, the truck unloader was set up as a hopper to allow 2 semi trailers to discharge simultaneously and improve throughput
Bulk loading without the Big investment D
EDICATED bulk handling ports handle high volumes of a single commodity or limited range of commodities, and are often located close to the source of those commodities to minimise rail or road transport costs from source to port. However there are many bulk commodities that, through a range of factors such as limited resource life, low volume, season production viability dependent greatly on market price, cannot justify an investment in dedicated port infrastructure. This is the market that Mobile Conveying Services serves, and it is one where its founder and managing director Graeme Cooney believes there is considerable scope for growth. “There are many general purpose wharves around Australia that have the capacity to load bulk cargo if they had access to the right equipment and expertise,” he told Australian Port News. Contractor beginnings Mobile Conveying Services started out as a bulk handling contractor, seeing that there was a middle ground in the bulk handling market that was not being adequately serviced in Australia. Fixed conveyor infrastructure suits high volumes while for small volumes that cannot justify this investment, there are any number of readily available solutions that do the job adequately but not efficiently. It started out with Telebelt truck-mounted telescopic conveyors doing short-term jobs largely in the civil and mining sectors, and as the demand for its services grew it bought track-mounted conveyors, a truck unloader for getting bulk material directly from a tipper onto a conveyor belt, and a telescopic radial stacker for building stockpiles or loading at height. It became obvious to Graeme that with this mix of equipment the potential market was wider than he first imagined, and included the possibility of loading bulk cargo onto ships. With a fleet of equipment, it was possible for Mobile Conveying Services to configure combinations of equipment to meet the specific truck unloading, material transfer and loading requirements of a site using as many as three machines for a job.
he realised that there would be some users for whom the regularity of work or need to have the right equipment available at short notice meant that it would be more economic to own equipment rather than engage a contractor. Graeme saw this as more of an opportunity than a threat, providing opportunities for geographic regions and individual ports to become self-sufficient in bulk handling and take advantage of spot opportunities; with Mobile Conveying Services able to provide expert advice based on its own hands-on experience and continue to serve businesses without the volume or expertise to become self-sufficient. Overall Graeme sees this approach as growing the size of the overall market, facilitating spot opportunities that would otherwise have remained unfulfilled. Should users avail themselves of the opportunity, it also provides an opportunity to work cooperatively to cover each other for downtime or peak demands, increasing reliability of service and profitability. The port solution Any mobile ship loading solution should consider three elements: material transfer from transport (be it road or rail), transfer from the loading area to shipside, and loading into the hold of the ship. In addition consideration should generally be given to whether some form of temporary storage is required at the port. Considerations will include: • the volume being shipped • the level of transport equipment available and whether trucks will make multiple trips • any penalty costs based on the length of time that the ship is berthed • the availability of a suitable storage area (either indoor or outdoor), and • the availability and/or cost of equipment to load the storage area and to discharge the storage area for ship loading. As well as Superior RazerTail truck unloading solutions, Mobile Conveying Services represents
Ashross truck and train unloaders. Ashross is another North American manufacturer and specialises only in unloading equipment, which it has continued to refine over a number of years. Both manufacturers offer unloaders that can be towed on the highway: the Ashross machine is self-propelled on site. These machines can be used with end dump or bottom dump tippers: Superior has also produced concept drawings for a towable side dump unloader at the request of Mobile Conveying Services, which is conscious of the popularity of side dump trailers in Australia. The Ashross unloader has fold-down steel ramps for trucks to drive over. The Superior truck unloader was designed to be used with earth ramps but Mobile Conveying Services has developed hydraulically folding steel ramps that it has fitted to the machine in its fleet and can offer to purchasers in Australia. Ashross also offers a portable truck unloader with fold up ramps. This is designed to be carried on a standard trailer and suits application where the unloader will be moved, but not frequently e.g. following growing seasons for a grain crop. Ashross also has in ground solutions for both trucks and trains. These have relatively low burial depths and the working parts can be jacked up for service or maintenance access. Ashross also has a portable truck unloader that is self-jacking so that a crane is not required to load and unload it. Its outrigger system allows it to “walk” on and off the track. Regardless of type, unloaders have several important characteristics in the transfer of bulk materials from road or rail transport. They unload quickly and immediately transfer material onto a belt, avoiding double handling. The next step is the transfer to shipside. The equipment required will depend on the distance and the number of changes of direction. Other considerations might be the need to minimise the footprint to keep areas open to other port traffic and access restrictions that limit the size or type of conveyor.
A self-propelled truck unloader and track-mounted telescopic conveyor were used on this trial coke shipment at Port Kembla for ease of set-up.
Search for reliability brings distributorship While Mobile Conveying Services had found the types of equipment that it needed, it strongly believes that if it was to seriously address a market such as ship loading, where reliability was critical, it needed robust equipment built to a standard rather than a price. Graeme searched the world and ended up on the doorstep of Superior Industries, a Minnesota (US) company specialising in mobile conveying equipment manufacture and prepared to back its equipment with an industry-leading warranty. While initially looking to buy Superior equipment for contracting, Graeme accepted the offer to represent Superior in Australia after Page 12 - Australian Ports News
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Superchutes can be supplied to control dust and avoid segregation during discharge into the ship hold. Mobile Conveying Services can offer a wide choice of Superior conveyors in a range of lengths and widths, or hire its Telebelt truckmounted telescopic conveyors as required. For intermittent work, the mobility of the Telebelt can be deciding length, along with its ability to set its feed and discharge conveyors at different angles to achieve a change of direction with a single machine. A telescoping conveyor with slewing capabilities is a good option for ship loading in being able to distribute the bulk material in the hold. Again there is a choice of Superior radial stacking conveyors and the Telebelts from the hire fleet. Opportunities Mobile Conveying Services believes that the current climate is actually a good one for ports, junior miners and bulk commodity exporters to consider their mobile bulk loading options: whether through direct investment or “dipping the toe in the water” with contract loading. Graeme says, “The mining climate can seem a bit doom and gloom at present, but I think that has a lot to do with the traditional model of large scale and high up-front investment in fixed infrastructure. “Owners of hard rock resources have the option of using contractors for surface mining or excavation and in pit crushing. They can contract for transport to an existing port, and contract for loading onto ship. “This means that their costs are largely related directly to income. They have the option of scaling up with fixed infrastructure at a later date when the market has stabilised, or they might even find that sticking with the contractors and low capital investment provides a better longterm return,” he concluded. Opportunities are open to ports wishing to increase their throughput and broaden their business base, producers or producer organisations wishing to open up export opportunities and even contractors looking to service multiple commodities within a region. For ports, there is the opportunity to look at permanent storage facilities and some fixed infrastructure for unloading, transfer to storage, reclaiming from storage and transfer to wharf in areas that do not impede other port activities. Mobile equipment can be used for conveying across the wharf and the transfer from wharf to ship, so that access to the wharf can be provided to other users as required. Regardless of the proponent and whether the choice is purchase or contract, Mobile Conveying Services has the answers. It has experience in loading a range of commodities at a number of wharves, and can provide practical advice and support based on its extensive experience. A full stevedoring service is now offered if required.
bulk
OPEN FOR BUSINESS unload
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Truck unloaders Transfer & loading conveyors
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Ph: 1300 665 409 Fax: 1300 665 438 Email: enquiries@mobileconveyors.com.au
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Australian Ports News - Page 13
Closer to the action – BEUMER technology in the Andaman Sea BEUMER is to deliver 16 belt conveyors to Brazilian mining group - Largest order for conveying systems in the company’s history
V
ALE MALAYSIA Minerals Sdn Bhd (VMM), a subsidiary of Brazilian mining group Vale SA headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, has awarded the BEUMER Group an order to supply 16 overland conveyors. For the specialist intralogistics company, this is the largest order in the conveying and loading systems product segment in the company’s history. Vale intends to set up an iron ore distribution centre in Teluk Rubiah, Manjung District, in Perak. At the facility, iron ore will arrive from Brazil and then be blended and shipped to the customers throughout the Asiapacific region. Vale wants to use the BEUMER troughed belt conveyors off the Malaysian coast, in the Strait of Malacca, for transporting iron ore from very large ore carriers (VLOC) to smaller vessels in a specially designed port and storage facility. This around 100 Mio. US$ order for the BEUMER Group is the largest in the conveying and loading technology segment of the company. Construction work is already in full swing. The loading terminals are expected to go into operation in 2014. A second expansion phase will run until 2019.
Above: The overland conveyors will transport the iron ore from the terminal to the port three kilometres away
Asciano invests in Melbourne’s future with delivery of a new Ship to Shore Crane I
N a significant move to improve productivity, Asciano has taken delivery of a new Ship to Shore (STS) crane at its Melbourne container terminal. Manufactured by ZPMC of Shanghai, the largest and most successful manufacturer of this type of crane in the world, the 104.5m high new Ship to Shore crane has been delivered partially assembled in a purpose built ship, the Zhen Hua 26, to enable it to fit under the Westgate Bridge. Following landing, the crane will be taken through a detailed acceptance and commissioning process before a formal hand over to the operations crew at the Melbourne container terminal.
Page 14 - Australian Ports News
East Swanson Dock Container Terminal Manager, Damien Ryan says he is pleased to receive the crane, “This is a demonstration of Asciano’s commitment to the Port of Melbourne and is part of a substantial capital expansion project to improve capacity and productivity at our terminals across Australia.” The arrival follows the successful delivery of four other Ship to Shore cranes at Asciano’s Fremantle and Sydney container terminals and brings the total of Asciano’s fleet of highly reliable and effective ZPMC cranes to 12. Additional ZPMC cranes are also scheduled for delivery at Asciano’s Melbourne, Fremantle and Brisbane sites in early 2013. “The additional investment in 12 new
manned straddle carriers which are due to arrive later this year and two more new Ship to Shore cranes due in early 2013, will further improve our landside capacity and productivity at the Melbourne terminal,” Mr Ryan concluded. Asciano Chief Executive and Managing Director, John Mullen has indicated his support for the capital expansion project noting, “The new ZPMC cranes are capable of undertaking up to 200,000 lifts per annum, which is a 10 to 20% improvement in productivity when compared to the older cranes being replaced. “This will enable us to provide further improvements in customer service to our customers around Australia and raise our productivity and service levels towards world benchmarks,” Mr Mullen concluded.
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Crane Specifications: The 104.5m high x 31m wide cranes are equipped with the latest Siemens technology (drive and control system) providing world class crane operation. They are designed to service up to post panamax size vessels with an outreach of 50m and a backreach of 18m.
Pace Brings Sennebogen Cranes to the Waterfront
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ACE CRANES Pty Ltd are extremely proud of their association with Sennebogen and with good reason. The range of Sennebogen heavy duty, harbour mobile cranes, now available at Pace Cranes epitomizes the very best in crane technology. As world leaders, Sennebogen, a German crane manufacturing company, is an incredible success story in its own right and can claim a number of world firsts in its design and development of new crane technology over the last 50 years. It was back in1952 that 21 year old Erich Sennebogen established his own humble company making agricultural machinery in the small German town of Pilling. 50 years later his company has an extraordinary worldwide presence with a number of state of the art production facilities dotted around the globe, driven by international sales figures which would be the envy of any manufacturer. As for world firsts; in 1962 Sennebogen developed the first hydraulic excavator. This was followed in 1969 by the world’s first fully hydraulic rope excavator. In 1980 the company introduced another first with the hydraulically adjusting articulated boom, setting new standards in operational speed and efficiency. They are just a few headline achievements and there has been many over the years leaving no doubt that Sennebogen will continue to lead the way. Pace Cranes, with its headquarters in Peakhurst, NSW, is an independently owned company and has its own claim to fame. This family- run business was established in 1987 and is typical of those small to medium Australian enterprises that, with a combination of hard work, sound strategy and a clear focus are strong enough to withstand the ebb and flow of global economics.
Now in its 25th year Pace Cranes is a proven national performer in the supply of cranes to a broad range of industry sectors and if you ask General Manager, Anthony Heeks why the company has managed to succeed where others have failed there is a simple explanation. “We know the demands of the industries that we service. We make it our business to respond with the right answers as far as cranes are concerned. More importantly our customers are our clients and we value those relationships. We take a long term view and that’s why one of our strengths is our after sales support and we take great pride in providing a high standard of service beyond the actual sale itself which is second to none.”
The Sennebogen mobile harbour cranes are ideal for port use and the range includes both wheeled and tracked models with capacities from 40 to180tonne. The range of Sennebogen cranes available is formidable and includes lattice boom crawler cranes with capacities form 80 to 300tonne as well as the HD series of duty cycle cranes suitable for a variety of industries with capacities from 20 to 200tonne. There’s also a series of telescopic boom crawler and wheel mounted cranes in capacities from 8 to 80tonne. Then there’s the HPC range of telescopic boom crane uppers with capacities of 40 and 60tonne which are ideally suited for fitting to a commercial truck chassis. Anthony believes that the Sennebogen range
is ideal for a variety of tasks in the day to day requirements of wharf and port operation. “Sennebogen have spent years and years refining their crane technology to produce a range of high performance Harbour Mobile Cranes that are extremely durable and very adaptable so they can fulfill a range of lifting needs. We can also provide a comprehensive package of ancillary equipment to meet just about any client-specific requirement.” Pace Cranes is the authorised Australian/ Pacific distributor for Sennebogen Cranes as well as Maeda Mini Crawler Cranes and the company also offers a broad range of services. These include sales of new and used cranes, service and repairs of all makes of cranes and a spare parts division. Pace can also refurbish cranes and prides itself on its team of highly trained and qualified personnel who combined, have a wealth of experience and can repair most brands of cranes. The team has specific knowledge with brands such as Franna, Kobelco, P&H, Maeda, Tadano, Kato, Grove, National Crane, PPM, Coles and many more. The level of Pace expertise has been on display throughout Australia and the Pacific including Indonesia, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, American Samoa and Papua New Guinea. Pace Cranes are highly successful and amongst their list of blue chip clients are MSB Waterways, Department of Defence (Navy and Army), Australian Nuclear Science & Technology Organisation (ANSTO); State Rail Authority, Sydney Ferries, Transgrid, Telstra, Caltex Refinery, Shell Refinery, Ulan Coal Mine and a multitude of crane hire companies throughout Australia. If you would like to know more about Pace Cranes visit; www.pacecranes.com.au
Pace Cranes supplies quality equipment combined with professional service and personal attention
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(02) 9533 5411 www.pacecranes.com.au Australian Ports News - Page 15
at home on other areas which are routinely subjected to ultra-heavy or high-intensity loading regimes such as bus and transport depots, docksides, stacking yards or busy intersections.
Pavement design Portmix is designed for use as a structural component of pavements which resists deflection under heavy loading conditions but it is also essential that the pavement is designed appropriately with consideration given to the conditions and the loads that it will carry. The pavement thickness and material types that can be used will vary depending on the specific loading conditions but Boral is able to provide all the necessary detail to assist the pavement design engineer in selecting the right Portmixbased solution for any situation.
A solution for ultra-high pavement loading Container terminal and port operators across Australia are becoming aware of the benefits of using Portmix high strength asphalt supplied by international building materials supplier Boral.
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ORTMIX is a high strength asphalt which has been specially designed for use in container terminals to withstand the heavy loadings imparted by both the containers and the vehicles that handle them. It is also recommended for use wherever ultra-high pavement loading is encountered. The product was previously called HSA but many in the industry were referring to it as Portmix and Boral took the opportunity to rebrand it as such recently, when they launched a new and improved version after an extensive research and development program. Boral’s National Pavement Manager – Asphalt, Ryan Jansz, said that one of the major drawbacks of conventional asphalt pavements is that very high loadings result in the rutting of the surface and a need for it to be replaced after a very short time. He said that Portmix is manufactured from a carefully chosen blend of high quality mineral aggregates, fillers and special binder modified with polymers to produce a highly rut-resistant surface capable of carrying high lateral-shear and bearing loads imparted by straddles, forklifts or similar large vehicles that handle and carry freight. The mix is also designed with enhanced fuel resistance and to operate in hot ambient temperatures typical of port areas. The pavements in container terminals are subjected to greater shear stresses than conventional road surfaces due to high point loading from container corner castings, high axle loading from handling equipment which often exceeds 100 tonnes, channelised wheel loading from straddle carriers and large lateral shear loads and mechanical abrasion from sharp turning movements of forklift tyres. Portmix has been specially formulated to resist deformation under slow and/or stationary loads at high ambient temperatures. This is achieved by the stone interlock of the coarse aggregates and the use of intensively researched polymers in combination with selected fillers to stiffen the mix. Portmix has been used in a number of locations including Patrick Terminals’ East Swanson Dock container terminal at the Port of Melbourne. Facilities Manager Peter Lewis said that he had used Portmix in a number of locations in the terminal over the years. It was first used to replace pavers in the roadway at the entrance to the terminal where the boom gates are located. The product was applied to a depth of 100mm over cement-treated crushed rock on a stretch of roadway 8m wide and 20m long. Mr Lewis said that the job had been completed some seven or eight years ago and that it Page 16 - Australian Ports News
Above: Asphalt with standard binder (left) showing breakdown due to fuel compared to asphalt with specially modified fuel resistant polymer binder (right) which shows no signs of deterioration.
was still looking as good as the day it was laid down, in spite of the fact that every vehicle moving in and out of the terminal travels over it. Portmix passed its first trial in the terminal with flying colours and was used on two occasions since then. Mr Lewis said that the indications are that Portmix does have a much-improved lifespan when compared to conventional asphalt. Portmix has been used successfully in a number of other locations around Australia including the Perth (aka Kewdale) Freight Terminal where over 23,000 square metres of pavement was surfaced with more than 3,000 tonnes of Portmix. The project was undertaken for K&S Freighters and civil works were completed between September 2010 and February 2011. The facility handles 430,000 TEU per annum, which is approximately 60% of Western Australia’s interstate containerised rail freight market. An independent consultant has analysed loading on the pavement as equivalent to it carrying 1.2 million forklift movements and 160,000 B-triple truck
movements, relating this input to a 20 year design life. As part of the design process, forklifts were modelled with a loaded front axle maximum weight of 104 tonnes and ability to carry 20’ and 40’ containers. A project of similar size was completed for the Port Of Brisbane, Qld about 3 years ago and the product has also been used at Adelaide Ports, SA. Mr Jansz said that Portmix had been compared to conventional asphalt in tests using a Wheel Tracking Test (WTT) apparatus. Conventional asphalt was tested in the WTT at 60°C and after 10,000 passes, it was found to be rutted to a depth of 3mm, which is considered to be a superior result under normal highway conditions. In a similar test, a Portmix surface was subjected to 60,000 passes at the higher temperature of 65°C exhibited rutting of between 1.5mm and 2.5mm deep. “We are in the process of collecting field data but the laboratory results we have to compare mixes, suggests that Portmix should be capable of a pavement life, based on resistance to deformation (rutting), that is at least six times greater than the conventional polymer-modified asphalts we have tested, and that is without taking into account the higher temperature conditions applied,” said Mr Jansz. He said that many years of research and development and empirical observations had established a viable correlation between these laboratory test results and the real world and that Portmix optimises each constituent of the asphalt to facilitate excellent deformation resistance compared to traditional mixes used in similar environments.
Construction The construction process is as essential to the success of Portmix and the eventual strength of the pavement as the mix technology itself. Boral’s own specialised crews are responsible for this aspect to ensure that the pavement is laid strictly in accordance with the company’s proprietary methodologies to ensure that the pavement achieves the greatest possible strength and lifespan.
Portmix benefits Portmix offers many benefits to port and container terminal operators, owners of industrial hard-stand areas or any application where pavements that can withstand ultra-high loading are required. The benefits include: ■
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Possible applications Portmix evolved out of Boral’s experience with the design and construction of highstrength asphalt wearing courses for container terminals at ports across the entire eastern seaboard of Australia, including the Ports of Melbourne, Brisbane, Kembla and around Sydney. Its very hardy nature makes it equally
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Greatly improved rut resistance to withstand heavy channelised traffic at high ambient temperatures. A resistance to water ingress and surface imperviousness that is no different to traditional mixes used at the ports. Smooth joint-free surface compared to block or cementitiously-bound pavements. Potential reduction in downtime due to a shorter curing period (Portmix sometimes requires a curing period of one week whereas concrete usually requires 4 weeks). Single-stage application compared to composites that require more than one site visit to complete. The ability to pave up to 5000m2 per standard work shift, depending on conditions. Accidental damage is easy to repair with asphalt in small areas while larger ones can be milled out and re-paved with Portmix.
Portmix is cost-competitive against other alternatives, including rigid pavements, and it provides flexibility in application that suits the short construction turnaround time required in high-turnover environments.
BORAL ASPHALT Build something great TM
made extra
STRONG to carry heavy LOADS Boral Portmix High Strength Asphalt Portmix high strength asphalt is specialty designed for use in container terminals to withstand ing g heavy loadings of straddle carriers and forklifts carrying containers. Manufactured from selected aggregate, fillers fillers nd and polymer modified blenders, the stone interlock and speciality formulated binder enables Portmix asphalt to resist deformation under slow and/or stationery loads at high ambient temperatures. Portmix is recommended for use wherever ultra-high pavement loading is encountered. For more information, visit www.boral.com.au/asphalt or call 1800 555 445
For Further Information Contact:
QLD
NSW
VIC
WA
SA
Nathan Barrell (07) 3867 7648 0401 892 040
Richard Trinder (02) 9033 5087 0401 897 902
Leo Boesten (03) 9981 2899 0401 897 911
Chris O’Halloran (08) 9458 0423 0401 897 678
Antonie Ferreira (08) 8297 7346 0401 897 909
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Australian Ports News - Page 17
Caveman constructs Port Morseby Port ‘Runway’ In 2011 Caveman Constructions was awarded the contract for the Port Moresby Container Terminal 5 Upgrade for Rubber Tyred Gantry Cranes (RTG) by PNG Ports Corporation Limited’s (PNGPCL) as part of the Port Moresby Port Infrastructure Redevelopment.
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ORT MORESBY, located on the south eastern coast of Papua New Guinea is the national capital and its port overlooking Fairfax Harbour plays an essential role in catering for a variety of ships and freight and so the movement of containers is an important aspect within the operational capacity of the port. PNGPCL manages and controls the operations in16 ports and has been steadily improving the Port Moresby facility. The total berth space at the port is approximately 545 metres and the facility incorporates 11.7 thousand square metres of storage space. This particular project is the latest in a number of ongoing upgrades to the port’s infrastructure. Work on the project commenced on 20th October 2011 and the Caveman project team are constructing an RTG ‘runway’ with completion anticipated by the end of September 2012. The runway will provide safer operation and easier mobility for the rubber tyred cranes as they move along the wharf. This will enable the port to dramatically improve the efficiency of its container handling. In simple terms, the RTG project requires the construction of 3 pairs of reinforced concrete runway beams on which the rubber tyred gantry cranes will travel. Caveman will also construct a track for the service bay which will run perpendicular to the main runway beams. Some earthwork is required to ensure that the existing hard stand areas are level and accurate to match the profile of the concrete track beams which are cast in the ground. Surface water drainage is also a key issue and the longitudinal profile of the tracks falls slightly from one end of the runway to the
other. The first pair of tracks is now completed and operational. The main challenge for the project team is to minimise disruption to port traffic during the construction phase, whether on the dock itself or arriving by sea or road. Caveman Construction Limited (PNG) is a nationally owned construction company which has rapidly become a major player within the PNG construction sector but its origin was a far more humble affair. Established in 1995, Caveman initially confined its construction activities to small buildings and contract maintenance. The company then moved into the uplifting and relocation of residential buildings while steadily building a reputation for quality workmanship. Then in 2005 Caveman was awarded its first marine project by PNG Ports Corporation Limited to rehabilitate and restore the Kavieng Wharf Trestle. Following its successful completion Caveman then applied its talent to rehabilitating the Port Moresby Main Wharf which was completed in 2011. Caveman Constructions now employs a permanent and highly versatile workforce of around 80 which includes management and civil engineering teams with specialised expertise in marine works. The operational strength of the company is further enhanced by a growing fleet of plant and equipment. Caveman Construction’s operational reach extend across PNG and includes design and construction of all types of civil infrastructure including marine works such as wharf abutments and approach works. At the heart of everything the company does is a strict company philosophy focused solely on the pursuit of perfection. It’s a working
culture which influences Caveman’s approach to every job no matter how large or small and one that governs every relationship. Such a discipline ensures that on the worksite, the highest possible standards of workmanship are achieved. It also applies to how the company relates to its clients, the community within the project area and the local environment.
Modern technology to boost PNG ports operations in future M
ODERN technology acquired by PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL) is set to boost operations at its major ports of Lae and Port Moresby. Modern machinery, customised information communication and technology solutions and the implementation of a Terminal Operating System are seen as the answer for effective and efficient port operations to cater for the forecasted increase in trade through the major PNG Ports. PNGPCL’s initiative to purchase and deploy offshore mobile harbour cranes (MHC) and rubber-tyred gantry cranes (RTG) complete with modern terminal operating systems (TOS) will create efficient operations at the ports with the aim to minimise storage congestion and also decrease ship turnaround times. The MHCs and RTGs are currently being trialled in Lae and Port Moresby with full operations to commence once training of operators, commercial arrangements and
Page 18 - Australian Ports News
insurance matters are in place. The RTGs, standing at 31.75m tall, 13.2m wide and 26.67m in length will revolutionise the way in which containers are stacked in the port and have proved that containers can be staked in an orderly manner, six containers high and five containers wide. Chief Executive Officer of PNGPCL, Mr. Stanley Alphonse said “this is truly exciting times for the Corporation as it has taken practical steps to deliver on its promise to improve operational efficiency with ship-toshore productivity.” Mr. Alphonse said PNGPCL has also strategised to increase yard utilisation and also providing a fit for purpose land support infrastructure for trade enabling authorities such as clearing agents and logistical service providers to effectively carryout their roles within the ports. PNGPCL’s key stakeholders are encouraged to support these initiatives and assist with the efficient and faster delivery of goods and services to the people of PNG. www.austportsnews.com.au
Above: Mobile Harbour Crane in operation at the Port Moresby Port. Below: RTG in operation at Lae Port.
Caveman Construction were proud to be awarded the construction contract for the
Port Moresby Port Runway Civil Construction Works Caveman Constructions involvement on the Rubber Tyred Gantry Project included: ●
The Construction of 3 pairs of reinforced concrete runway beams on which the rubber gantry cranes will travel
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Construct a tract for the service bay which will run perpendicular to the main runway beams
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Some earth work to ensure that existing hard stand areas are level and accurate to match profile to concrete tract beams
Phone: +675 323 8422 PO Box 169 Harbour City Section 21 Lot 30 Lahara Ave, PORT MORESBY www.cavemanconstructions.com www.austportsnews.com.au
Australian Ports News - Page 19
SPE the Efficient Solution to Marine Maintenance E
FFICIENCY of time and motion is a key factor in the success of any business and it’s no different on the dockside or on board any ship. As anyone running a business knows; inefficiency affects the bottom line, and if equipment or machinery is faulty, the ability to make a profit, whether loading or unloading containers or simply moving a ship from A to B can be impeded. The team at South Pacific Engineering (SPE) knows that regular testing and maintenance can save a company time and money in the long term and they are qualified to ensure that onshore or offshore, marine machinery and equipment is both efficient and safe to use. It’s an area the company specialises in and according to Noel Lal, Managing Director of SPE, efficiency is a key ingredient in the way he conducts his own business. “Our services are constantly in demand and so our own efficiency is paramount. When we send someone to do a job, such as testing or repairing a crane or an anchor chain they are qualified and certified to do that job efficiently. Satisfying our client’s requirements quickly and with the minimum of fuss is a demand we place on ourselves because time is money and our key to successful business growth is always through a word of mouth recommendation.” Noel knows his business back to front with over 30 years in the business of marine maintenance and he oversees a formidable team of qualified engineers and technicians who are highly proficient. Regular training sessions are also conducted to ensure that the team remains up to date with the latest technological advances to the equipment they maintain. The SPE team is NATA accredited (National Australia Testing Association) and a member of LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association). The company is also ISO certified
Above: Our Sydney Fleet
Above: SPE Wire rope and chain hoist
Above: Ship crane repairs
and LOLAR trained and qualified to conduct maintenance, inspections, repairs, testing and certification of all makes & models of cranes. SPE also provide electrical, mechanical, pneumatic and hydraulic services. In effect, SPE is a one-stop shop and apart from cranes the company is qualified to conduct inspections, repairs, maintenance, testing and certification of Davits; Winches; Capstan; Windlass, Fairleads; Ladders; Anchor; Anchor Chains; Elevators, Lifts, Lifting and Rigging gear. The company can also supply of all types of certified lifting and rigging equipment. SPE was established in 1999 and, through its efficient ability to get the job done to the satisfaction of its clients, has grown dramatically with a constant expansion of its workforce. The company now has offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth with a national reach that can be mobilised at short notice to ensure that anywhere in Australia, downtime caused through a client’s equipment failure can be minimised. As a NATA approved company, SPE has a wealth of experience maintaining, testing and certifying lifting and rigging equipment on board Australian Naval ships and at Department of Defence facilities.
SPE’s existing relationship with the Department of Defence was expanded in 2007 when Defence Maintenance Management (DMM) began overseeing maintenance operations and a contract was offered to SPE to maintain its cranes, lifting gear, motorised doors and towers, as well as its Rigging Warrant at its defence facility in South Victoria. SPE established a branch office in Williamstown, Victoria to improve support for the work in that region. The contract was recently renewed and was further expanded to include maintaining equipment in the Shoalhaven area. SPE currently maintain approximately 4000 pieces of equipment including cranes, masts, lifts, conveyors, dock levelers, motorised doors, roof safely lines, lifting and rigging gear, towers and hoists for defence establishments in NSW and Victoria. In WA, SPE services are provided to offshore industries including such companies and their facilities as Modec, Chevron and Woodside. The work conducted by SPE provides full support for offshore systems including hoists, cranes, lifting equipment, rigging equipment, electrical and maintenance systems To assist
in those operations the company recently established a branch office in Yangebup in Western Australia. SPE services are also in demand overseas and the company has now established a joint venture in Mumbai, India to serve marine and other industries. SPE are also highly active in the greater Pacific Ocean region. Noel Lal has no doubt that both its qualified workforce and its operational reach will continue to expand as demand for SPE’s services grows. “We are confident in our own abilities and determined to provide the highest standards possible in testing and maintenance throughout all industry sectors. Currently, we have a strong competitive advantage because within our workforce there is a wealth of experience, combined with a common sense approach to engineering fundamentals. This is further strengthened by in-house qualifications that are enhanced by rigorous training so that we continue to stay abreast and in tune with technological advances affecting plant and equipment.” As long as the working life of plant and equipment remains so important to operational strength and profitability, companies such as South Pacific Engineering will remain a key ingredient in maintaining the welfare of that machinery to ensure that such a high level of working efficiency can continue to be relied upon.
Marine Vessels (Naval & Merchant); Onshore & Offshore Facilities Inspection, Repair, Maintenance, Testing and Certification of: Cranes (all types); Davits; Winches; Capstan; Windlass, Fairleads; Ladders; Anchor; Anchor Chains; Elevators, Lifts, Lifting and Rigging gear. www.spengineering.com.au info@spengineering.com.au
Supply of all types of lifting and rigging equipment (certified).
AUSTRALIA Sydney Melbourne Perth
02 9755 3733 03 9397 2855 08 9494 1221
Page 20 - Australian Ports News
www.austportsnews.com.au
Load Testing Capabilities: Water bags – 125t (35t; 20t; 15t; 10t & 5t); Solid Weights – 25t (1.6t; 1t; 0.5t; 0.25t; 100kg; 93kg; 25kg & 20kg); Tension load test beds – 200t/20t (computerized); 50t; 30t & 5t
Ports News
Macquarie Wharf Contract Awarded
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HE Infrastructure Minister, David O’Byrne (above), congratulated Fairbrother Pty Ltd on winning the contract to transform Hobart’s Macquarie Wharf Number 2 Shed into a worldclass Antarctic and cruise ship centre. Tasports announced Fairbrother Group as the successful contractor and construction work on the $7 million project will begin in the next few weeks. “This is yet another exciting development at a uniquely exciting time on the Hobart waterfront,” Mr O’Byrne said. “From the modern redevelopment of Princes Wharf Number One Shed, the provision of PW2 for the Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, and the $50 million rehabilitation of the Hobart railyards for future use, we’re transforming this waterfront into a modern and dynamic place, which attracts people to work, play and live. “As well as making it a fantastic place to spend time, that unique waterfront renaissance will create jobs and social opportunities for years and decades to come,” he said. Mr O’Byrne said the announcement is a win for tourism, Antarctic research, and local construction jobs, all in one. “This Antarctic and cruise ship centre will provide a massive boost for those two important industries, and another source of pride for people who love the Hobart waterfront,” Mr O’Byrne said. “Fairbrother is a well-respected local company, and now has a chance to share in that pride and achievement. “Hobart has the highest concentration of Antarctic and sub-Antarctic researchers in Australia, and the Government is working strongly with the industry to attract more East Antarctic nations to adopt Hobart as their Antarctic gateway. “Our deep-water port is also going from strength-to-strength as a cruise ship destination, with another bumper summer coming up. “Both tourism and our Antarctic industry are identified as key growth sectors in the Tasmanian Government’s Economic Development Plan, which helps find new sustainable markets and create the jobs of tomorrow,” he said. Mr O’Byrne also congratulated Tasports for recently completing a $4 million remediation of Macquarie Wharf Number 4. “Tasports has responded promptly and decisively to replace corroded concrete under the wharf,” Mr O’Byrne said. “The recent investment ensures this major Hobart wharf remains strong, safe and fit-forpurpose in the years and decades ahead,” he said.
Works Set to Commence on $7 million Cruise & Antarctic Hub T
ASPORTS recently announced that it has awarded Tasmanian construction firm Fairbrother Pty Ltd the contract to undertake the construction work involved in redeveloping Macquarie No 2 as a dedicated Cruise and Antarctic facility. Tasports Chief Executive Paul Weedon said that construction works will begin in the coming weeks and are expected to be completed by March 2013. “Initial activity will focus on site establishment and the removal of the asbestos roof, which will be carried out by a licensed specialised contractor and managed by Fairbrother.” Following this, general demolition and new traffic arrangements will be established. The design provides a dedicated Cruise terminal to enhance passenger arrival experience, reconfigured traffic flow arrangements to improve efficiency of tour-bus and taxi operations during cruise vessel visits, as well as a dedicated logistics facility for Antarctic and Southern Ocean operations. “Tasports has worked with government, industry and operational stakeholders throughout the development of the business case for Macquarie No 2 and it is strongly believed that this development will further cement strategic plans to foster Cruise and Antarctic activities in Hobart, providing flow on economic benefits for port users, tourism and the greater Tasmanian community. “Hobart is cementing its place as the gateway to Antarctic and Southern Ocean research and exploration, and Tasports is pleased that it can support this with infrastructure to cater for forecast growth in these critical market segments.” The announcement that works will commence comes at a pivotal time, with Tasports recently completing work on the remediation of Macquarie Wharf No 4. This remediation returns the working area
Above and Below: Designs for the new Macquarie No 2 development
of the wharf to its original design specification and loading, with Tasports investing more than $4 million in its Macquarie Wharves over the last three years. “Replacement of the concrete structures under the wharf was required following years of steel corrosion brought on by the marine
environment. “Tasports is committed to maintaining its infrastructure to meet existing and future customer needs, with the strategic development of our port, as well as our maintenance and infrastructure plans, largely informed by the future requirements of our customers.”
Driving Record Port Efficiency T
HE Minister for Roads and Ports, Duncan Gay, congratulated Sydney Ports on driving major improvements in supply chain efficiency at Port Botany. “Speaking at the Annual Transport Workshop Mr Gay said in its first 12 months, the Port Botany Landside Improvement Strategy (PBLIS) had greatly improved truck turn-around times through the port’s two terminals. “Turnaround times have improved by 30percent to an average 32 minutes and that means far less congestion at terminal gates. “PBLIS has also resulted in more trucks accessing the port in off-peak times,
including nights and weekends, reducing bottle necks and congestion and taking a good deal of pressure off the supply chain, Mr Gay said. Mr Gay said the Government made a commitment to independently review the PBLIS strategy after 12 months in operation and the results have been far better than predicted. “The Sydney Ports’ team is doing something quite remarkable with this PBLIS initiative – they have analysed every part of the supply chain, identified the strengths and weaknesses, and are now driving further efficiencies, Mr Gay said. “The newly opened Truck Marshalling Area (TMA) on the main road into the Terminals is already delivering results. By providing a safe and secure area
Above: Lachlan Benson – Executive General Manager Industry Relations and Logistics (Sydney Ports) addressing workshop – on the table from left to right: Sydney Ports CEO Grant Gilfillan, Ports Minister Duncan Gay, Sydney Ports Senior Marketing Manager Jason McGregor, and PBLIS General Manager Steve Gunn www.austportsnews.com.au
for up to 50 early-arriving trucks, the TMA enables on-time trucks to access the terminals without getting caught in queues. Mr Gay said the rail efficiency at the port is a significant challenge but meeting our target of 28-percent container movements by 2020 is by no means unrealistic. “Right now Sydney Ports is working on some innovative strategies that also depend on the full support of stakeholder’s across the supply chain. Mr Gay said key to the success of this strategy is communication and that’s why Sydney Ports is establishing its Port Botany Rail Operations and Coordination Centre (ROCC). “The ROCC’s main task will be to coordinate and communicate between the rail operators, stevedores and rail network providers, to improve the efficiency of daily rail operations in and out of the port. “Eventually, the ROCC will be facilitating port-rail operational planning, addressing operational issues, coordinating train services through Port Botany and maintaining a safety culture throughout the port precinct. “With all of these PBLIS initiatives working in harmony across the supply chain, I am very confident future performance targets will be met and that all stakeholders will directly benefit from the resulting improvements in road and rail efficiencies,” Mr Gay said. Australian Ports News - Page 21
MARINE GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS for Port Development and Maritime Engineering Investigations MHS Marine Seismic Tomography System produces conventional profiles of Reflection Seismic “Reflectors” and also measures reliable Compressional “P-wave velocities” within these reflectors. Correlation of Compressional P-wave velocities through materials in situ strength provides very useful information for engineering projects such as dredging and piling. As a general guide, the table below is a summary of expected seismic velocities in the marine environment for a wide range of
materials and geological settings that can be applied where other site-specific information is limited. The general correlation in the table identifies that softer and looser materials have generally low seismic velocities close to that of water (~1500 m/s) while denser and stronger materials are characterised by higher seismic velocities. Mapping and Hydrographic Surveys Pty Ltd now offers this new 2D Marine Seismic Tomography capability to the Ports, Harbours and Maritime Engineering community.
Material Description
M
APPING and Hydrographic Surveys Pty Ltd can offer several Marine Seismic and Sub Bottom Profiling systems such as High Resolution BOOMER and PINGER systems, CHIRP systems and Bottom Towed Marine Refraction systems all of which are well known and well accepted Marine Geophysical systems. Mapping and Hydrographic Surveys Pty Ltd has become aware of the growing trend for Port Development and Marine Infrastructure Engineering to require broader and deeper geophysical investigations and that current ‘Sub Bottom Profiling’ geophysical techniques are falling short of these requirements. Mapping and Hydrographic Surveys Pty Ltd together with a consultant from the USA has developed a High Resolution 2D Marine Reflection Seismic System to meet the needs of Port Development and Marine Infrastructure Engineers. Based on the well proven Offshore Oil Industry 2D Seismic System, MHS High Resolution 2D Marine Reflection Seismic System has been designed specifically to acquire high definition 2D Reflection Seismic and Compressional P-Wave Velocity data over a target penetration depth of 50 metres and MHS has been operating the system on current projects with considerable success. MHS “MKII” 2D Marine Seismic Tomography System” using a specialized seismic sound source and a highly sensitive 24 channel Hydrophone Array Streamer with matched frequency response ranging from 10Hz to 2.5kHz. This system can now acquire both depth of penetration to 50 metres through harder seabed materials with velocities exceeding 2,700 metres per second, define the nearer (softer) sub seabed strata “reflectors” and provide Compressional P-wave velocities throughout the vertical profile. MHS MKIII 2D Marine Reflection Seismic System is an easily portable system configured with a 12 channel Hydrophone Array Streamer and using a lower energy seismic source is designed to achieve higher resolution of the upper seabed strata to 20 metres penetration specifically for Maritime Engineering and Dredging Investigations. This system should not require an EPBC Referral (for the non disturbance of marine creatures) to allow its operation in Australian waters.
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Analysis and processing of the seismic data is carried out using automated computer based systems resulting in a much faster turn around than using traditional manual methods of processing and analysis of seismic and sub seabed data. An example of a Processed and Reduced Data file surveyed by MHS in November 2009 is shown below:
Gas-filled fine sediments Silts and soft clays Stiff clays Loose to dense sands Cemented sands Loose gravels, cemented gravels Younger limestone (reef) Older limestone (reef) Calcarenite, siliceous calcarenite Boulders/broken rock in sand Weathered sandstone/shale Fresh sandstone/shale Fresh Granite Fresh Basalt Fresh Metamorphics
Seismic Line Run 1 (90) November 2009 Processed
Seismic Line Run 1 (90) November 2009 Reduced to Datum www.austportsnews.com.au
Seismic Velocity (m/s) 800-1400 1500-1600 1700-1900 1600-1800 1900-2400 1800-2400 2200-3500 2500-6000 2000-3700 1900-4000 1900-2500 2700-4300 4300-5800 3000-6500 3000-7000
MAPPING & HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYS Pty Ltd 31 Byron Street Bulimba Queensland 4171 PO BOX 7144 East Brisbane Queensland 4169 AUSTRALIA Telephone 61 (0)7 3399 8566 Fax 61 (0)7 3899 1515 Email: mhs@mhshydro.com Web: www.mhshydro.com
MHS provides a broad range of Hydrographic Survey Services to Government, Corporate and Private clients throughout Australia and overseas. We have a demonstrated track record in achieving high quality results in challenging physical environments around the world. For over thirty years, MHS has been committed to providing quality surveying services at highly competitive rates.
PROJECTS UNDERTAKEN INCLUDE:
The company employs experienced professionals accredited to Level 1 (ISA) and Cat A (IHO) qualifications and dedicated to the needs of the client.
Channel Charting Surveys
Our equipment is portable and adaptable; therefore it can be easily transported for use on vessels of opportunity, to local, remote, interstate or overseas locations. MHS utilises advanced multi beam technology to produce award-winning results.
Investigations for New Ports/Offshore Ship Loaders and Redevelopment of Existing Ports Capital and Maintenance Dredging Surveys Route Surveys for Submarine Pipelines and Cables Marine Seismic Profiling Environmental Monitoring Coastal Erosion and Management Surveys Ocean Outfall Investigations Ocean Current and Tidal Studies Seabed sampling
“Excellence in Surveying� awards are testament to our dedication.
www.austportsnews.com.au
Australian Ports News - Page 23
Swathe invests in the R2Sonic2024 Echo Sounder
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INCE Swathe Services began operating, the company has established itself as a leading provider of hydrographic support to marine engineers, survey companies, dredge operators and the offshore oil and gas industry. Swathe Services can provide highly skilled hydrographic surveyors, survey equipment and tailor-made solutions to suit client specifications. The company’s dedicated team of qualified and certified hydrographic surveyors are experts in conducting high accuracy hydrographic surveys for coastal infrastructure, risk management and safety of navigation. A specialist consultancy service is provided by the company’s certified Level 1 surveyor for client representation, dredging projects and survey planning requirements. With more than 30 years’ experience within the company working on projects throughout Australia, South East Asia,
Papua New Guinea and the Pacific, Swathe Services is committed to providing every one of its clients with high quality and cost-effective survey services and equipment. As part of a continuous commitment to investing in only the highest quality state-of-the-art equipment, the company has recently included the R2Sonic2024 Broadband echo sounder in its operational and rental equipment portfolio. In addition to the extensive pool of proven high quality survey equipment available for hire, Swathe Services is also an approved sales distributor for the complete range of top-level survey equipment, manufactured by Valeport and the Oceanscience Group. If required, Swathe Services can also provide experienced operators for all products as well as full technical support and training.
Anchor located on seabed
High resolution multi beam data
Providing hydrographic support and equipment to marine engineers, contractors and survey companies throughout the world Specialist hydrographic service and consultancy for port operators, engineers and survey companies. Survey equipment for sale and hire provided with training and full technical support. Approved sales distributors for the Oceanscience Group and Valeport.
Swathe Services lves – our results speak for themse
Rental pool of survey equipment supplied as standalone solutions or with our own highly qualified surveyors.
Swathe Services (Australia) Pty Ltd Tel +61 (0) 8 8351 1203 Email info.aus@swathe-services.com
Swathe Services UK Division Tel +44 (0) 1752 842293 Email info.uk@swathe-services.com
Page 24 - Australian Ports News
www.austportsnews.com.au
The REAL DEAL in Hydrographic Surveying M
ICK FITZPATRICK is the Director of Aquamap Hydrographic Services and he is a highly qualified, hydrographic surveyor whose specialised expertise is sought both in Australia and overseas. However, Mick doesn’t hold his punches and has no time for incompetence, particularly from those people who operate within his industry and who are not qualified to do so. You can understand why he continues to speak out. Where marine vessels are involved the consequences of inaccurate mapping can be fatal and Mick believes that the high standards by which he operates are under threat by others within his industry. Those people who do not have the appropriate credentials or the expertise to conduct and/ or provide advice on hydrographic surveying. Mick Fitzpatrick is passionate about his profession and with a wealth of real experience accrued over 20 years he does have a right to speak out. “My concern is that there are some who are operating in the hydrographic industry who are simply not qualified to do the surveying work they do. Providing safe passage for marine vessels is a serious business and requires special expertise, skill and accuracy. When people who are not qualified, do the job, the consequences for shipping can be extreme and dangerous. The trouble is that in Australia there are inexperienced people undertaking hydrographic surveying and they do not understand the limitations of the technology they use. Apart from the dangers presented by imprecise mapping it’s a lowering of standards that has the potential to damage the credibility of my profession.” Mick Fitzpatrick’s credentials are impeccable. Once you move past the formality of the long list of letters that follows his name which denote his academic and scientific prowess, his frontline experience speaks for itself. He has worked on some of the biggest dredging operations ever undertaken in Australia. Mick has supervised and conducted a range of predredge and clearance surveys for BHP and FMG at Port Hedland; for Gina Rinehart’s Roy Hill iron ore project in the Pilbara and for Rio Tinto at Cape Lambert and there are many others. More recently, Mick has been supervising the latest surveys in Gladstone, where he has been checking and signing off on the dredging for Australia’s biggest Gas Project which includes companies such as QGC, APLNG and GLNG. Mick also continues to apply his profession for the Marine and
Above: Multibeam echo sounder data of backhoe dredger at work
Above: Side scan imagery of debris / obstructions left in berth pocket after construction of wharf Ports Division of Queensland Transport and prior to that contract he was the Hydrographer for the Port of Townsville for twelve years. His services have also been used overseas in a number of
countries including Vietnam, New Zealand. It’s important to highlight the critical nature of Mick Fitzpatrick’s finite work in mapping the seabed. Without the right know-how to understand the limitations of the latest technological equipment things can be missed and it’s not something you can learn in a book. As Mick says, “presenting nice pictures to clients might be visually pleasing to the eye but they can also conceal the reality of what really lies deep below the surface on the seabed unless you know what you’re looking for.” In simple terms, a hydrographic surveyor collects data from a body of water to determine the safe navigation of marine vessels. This data could be collected in the ocean, a harbour, a lake or a river not just for the safe transit of shipping but also for marine construction related to port infrastructure and marinas. Mick Fitzpatrick believes that from a cost effective point of view there is a simple premise, whether dealing with marine construction or the safe passage of marine vessels. If a hydrographic survey is required then make sure that the surveyor is registered with the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute of Australia. To do otherwise could be costly. In the case of marine construction, an inaccurate survey may ultimately require millions of dollars in extra costs needed to overcome survey errors. Of course when dealing with the passage of marine vessels if you get it wrong, the consequences could be fatal. Through his company Aquamap, Mick Fitzpatrick provides a broad array of surveying services including bottom profiling for dredging, marine charts, marina construction, flood plain studies, flood investigations, water storage works, erosion control, bridge investigations and for the laying of submarine cables. In addition to his surveying qualifications Mick also has a Master V Certificate and is qualified to skipper vessels up to 24metres in length. This can be a huge advantage in providing a cost effect service by using his own vessel to conduct mapping operations with minimum support. Aquamap can also provide chartered vessels either by hire or lease and with or without crew. There’s no doubt that as far as his profession is concerned Mick Fitzpatrick’s is the ‘real deal’ and the safest way to go when you need highly precise and cost effective hydrographic surveying for marine construction or dredging. If you’d like to know more about the range of services provided by Mick and his company, Aquamap visit; www.aquamap.com.au or call 07) 4772 6418
Certified Professional Hydrographic Surveying 7 Fourth Ave South Townsville (North) Qld. 4810 Australia Tel Mob Email Web
Mick Fitzpatrick B.App.Sc(SURV) MHS MSSI Hydrographic Surveyor L1 (CZM) Master V
: + 61 (07) 47 726 418 : 0448 299 004 : aquamap@bigpond.com : www.aquamap.com.au
Welcome to AQUAMAP Hydrographic Services AQUAMAP Pty Ltd has been formed to provide timely and cost-efficient hydrographic services. These services are provided globally, with projects extending to areas like Vietnam, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea as well as all parts of Australia. The company is based in Townsville, Queensland and is ideally placed for quick response surveys across the top of Australia and beyond.
AQUAMAP can provide professional advice on: • Consultancy & Project Management of Hydrographic Surveys and Dredger Monitoring • Hydrographic Solutions • Environmental Monitoring • Tidal and Current Analysis • Geodetic Survey Control • Topographic and Detail Surveys • Continuous Land-Sea Definition • RTK Base Station Installation and Monitoring • Dredging System Management • Anchorage investigations
• Beach Protection Surveys • Boat Ramp Inspection and Investigation Surveys • General Mapping of the Sea Floor • Offshore Positioning • Post-Dredge Surveys • River and Estuary Surveys • River X-Sections • Shoal Investigations • Siltation Monitoring • Vessel Charter • Vessel Tracking
www.aquamap.com.au www.austportsnews.com.au
Australian Ports News - Page 25
Ports News
Port Hedland Pilotage Services Setting the Benchmark - Port Hedland Pilots Gain ISPO Certification
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HE Port Hedland Port Authority (PHPA) is pleased to announce that Port Hedland Pilots (PHP) have been successful in achieving certification for the International Standard for Pilotage Organisations Code 2011 (ISPO), and were concurrently awarded certification by Det Norske Veritas (DNV). To be awarded these two prestigious levels of certification, PHP’s operational quality and safety management systems were required to be of an exemplary standard and to meet all the compulsory elements of certification. DNV also commended PHP for achieving the recommended elements of the ISPO standard, as well as the high standard of work that went into the preparation for assessment. The PHPA Chief Executive Officer, Roger Johnston, has welcomed the certification “With Port Hedland experiencing an ever increasing number of vessel movements, it is critical we use the best Pilots in the field to assist the Port in mitigating the increasing associated risks.” “Port Hedland Pilots certification is a further demonstration of the PHPA’s commitment to be the world’s leading port, and by providing a pilotage service of this high calibre, we are doing our best to ensure that the Port’s operations are as safe and efficient as possible.”
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Above: Above: A certified marine pilot at the PHPA The ISPO Certification is renewed every five years and is subject to regular internal audits, as well as annual verification and audit through DNV.
Port Hedland Pilots are only the 10th pilotage organisation in the world to achieve this internationally recognised pilotage system certification.
More Cruise Ships to Visit Port Hedland
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HE Port Hedland Port Authority (PHPA) is pleased to announce that it will be accepting bookings for five cruise ship visits in the next (2012/13) financial year. This is over twice the number of cruise ship visits that the Port has seen for the current financial year. The cruise ship visits to the Port in the last 12 months (October 2011 and March 2012) have proven to be very successful for the
Corporation Sponsoreship Helps Maritime Centre Illuminate Exhibits
PHPA and the cruise operators involved. The Town of Port Hedland and the Chamber of Commerce have also reported back positively about the economic and social benefits that were generated for the local community by the visits. The PHPA CEO, Roger Johnston said, “The Port Authority is keen to facilitate the diversification of trade through the Port and surrounding region, and at the same time
enhance the sustainability of the Town. With that in mind, we are pleased to be able to accept three additional cruise ship visits for the coming financial year.” “Not only is this is a great opportunity for the Port and the Town of Port Hedland, but also for the hundreds of tourists who will get the chance to witness operations at the world’s largest bulk export port first hand.” Mr Johnston added.
$5,000 sponsorship from Newcastle Port Corporation has assisted the Newcastle Maritime Centre on Lee Wharf to better illuminate its major exhibitions. The centre officially opened in October 2008 and a recent inspection revealed that the facility needed to upgrade its lighting to improve illumination around maritime history displays and exhibitions. The centre’s Program Co-ordinator, Deb Mastello, said visitors continually showed great interest in the region’s maritime history which necessitated a call for assistance to provide improved illumination. “Newcastle Port Corporation has come to our help and the $5,000 funding has enabled us to enhance the lighting arrangements over the exhibits,” said Deb. “It’s been a great help and people who have previously been to the centre will see a big difference on their return visit. “Newcastle Port Corporation has been one of our major supporters and this is enabling us to showcase our maritime history on the waterfront.” CEO of Newcastle Port Corporation, Gary Webb, said the centre is a popular destination for people of all ages to see and learn about the region’s maritime history. “The centre has many fascinating exhibits and shows, one being the Victoria lifeboat and its story about saving seafarers from rough seas in the days of wind and sail,” said Gary. “Newcastle Port Corporation is pleased to assist the centre as the port’s commercial history dates back to 1799 when the first coal was exported from Newcastle. “The new lighting system is throwing the spotlight on many aspects of the port’s 213 year history and we know visitors to the centre will appreciate the improvements.”
Revitalising Australian Shipping Margie Thomson, Chief Executive Officer, Cement Industry Federation
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USTRALIAN manufacturers reliant upon coastal shipping have the most to gain from a strong and vibrant coastal shipping service. Indeed, a vibrant and efficient shipping service is an essential component of the competitiveness of our economy. Coastal shipping is used to move inputs around Australia to make ‘home-grown’ manufactured goods and to move final products to the consumer for sale in Australia. Many Australian manufacturers, including cement, sugar, ethanol, fertilizer and soda ash producers are dependent on these highly regulated coastal shipping services. Coastal shipping costs represent up to 30% of total costs for Australian dry bulk products. When it is currently cheaper to ship many manufacturing products from Asia, than to ship Australian products around Australia’s coastline, it is obvious that Australian shipping needs to be reformed. In June 2012, when the Government’s shipping reform package passed through the House of Representatives, it was the Maritime Union of Australia and the shipping industry itself applauding from the public gallery. The users of the shipping services were notably absent from the celebrations. This should not Page 26 - Australian Ports News
have come as a big surprise to the Government as shipping users were also absent from the majority of the ‘lengthy’ consultation process in formulating the policy. Direct consultation with those potentially hardest hit by price rises in shipping services, the smaller dry bulk shipping users, did not occur until December 2011 when the legislation had been drafted. The passing of the legislation in June 2012 coincided with the release of the much hyped and anticipated ‘productivity compact’ between unions and the shipping owners, which formalised rather than improved existing uncompetitive labour practices on Australian vessels. The productivity compact was also negotiated without any input from the users of shipping services. To users of coastal shipping, the reform package increases the power and influence of the Australian Government in having the ultimate say on which ship will move Australian dry bulk goods around our coastline. This type of protectionist policy, particularly at a time when the high Australian dollar is already putting enormous pressure on trade exposed manufacturing industries, is difficult to justify. Retaining a vibrant Australian manufacturing sector was not even considered in the formulation of the Government’s shipping
policy. Shipping users had a few basic requests that could have been accommodated within the Government’s reform package consultation process. These included an acknowledgement in the objects of the Coastal Trading Bill 2012 of the need for efficiency of service to the users who create Australian coastal shipping demand. A Productivity Commission inquiry into the potential impacts on shipping users was also deemed as not being warranted by the Government. Instead of rising to meet these basic requests, the Government rushed through the reforms twelve months earlier than its own original timeline. The evidence provided by the Department of Transport and Infrastructure to the Senate Inquiry into the shipping reform legislation confirmed the Government had no actual idea what the outcome of the reforms might be, no numerical target for new Australian flagged vessels, no productivity aspiration, nothing. Perhaps the reason the Department was not able to produce a model is that the impact of the reforms will depend entirely on how the Minister chooses to administer the new temporary licence system. Under the new reforms, the Minister holds all of the discretion
www.austportsnews.com.au
and there are only loose guidelines as to how this discretion must be exercised. In the face of scepticism from shipping users, the Minister and the Maritime Union of Australia have consistently insisted the reforms will help rather than hinder those industries reliant upon coastal shipping. Australia certainly has a long way to go, given the lack of competition between shipping providers that currently exists, the very high shipping employment costs and the apparent lack of appreciation that the customers of coastal shipping create the demand. A revitalised Australian shipping industry can only exist if the users of coastal shipping services can continue to compete against their international counterparts. What is the point of creating a protectionist shipping policy if there are no products to move around Australia’s coastline? Australian dry bulk shipping users insist that a Productivity Commission review of the Government’s coastal shipping policy is in the interests of all Australians. The Government’s recent attempt to further regulate Australia’s coastal shipping services only heightens the need for an independent review to occur.
Albanese announces a revitalised Australian shipping industry A new era dawns for Australia’s maritime industry T
Anthony Albanese MP (left) with Paddy Crumblin (middle) National Secretary, Maritime Union of Australia.
ANTHONY ALBANESE: “I am very pleased to be here on what is a historic day. “Today the House carried five pieces of legislation that will revitalise the Australian shipping industry and I’m joined by Teresa Lloyd of the Australian Shipowners Association, and Paddy Crumlin from the Maritime Union of Australia. “Today as well, they’ve announced a Compact between employers and employees – the MUA, the Australian Maritime Officers Union through Fred Ross, and the Australian Shipping Association – in order to deliver productivity and efficiency benefits as part of this reform. “This is a historic reform. “We’re an island continent. We depend upon ships for our trade. More than 99 per cent of our trade goes through shipping. We have the fourth largest shipping task in the world, and yet we’ve seen a decline – 55 ships down to 22 in recent years, and dropping. We only have four ships engaged in the international trade. That is not good enough. “There are real reasons for recognising that an Australian shipping industry is absolutely vital. Economic, in terms of productivity, environmental, in terms of making sure that we have top quality ships and trained people with proper conditions operating around our coast, and also reasons of national security. “Today’s legislation does just that. It produces a zero rate of taxation for Australian ships. It produces a zero rate of taxation for Australian seafarers. And it makes sure that they can compete with international shipping, not only around our coast through properly regulated arrangements, but can also grow and expand into the international trade. “I want to acknowledge the fact that both the employers and employees have been flexible and have made sure that they haven’t put their own interests first. They’ve put the national interest first. “This is a great day for Australian shipping. I am very confident after the discussions that we’ve had that over coming months I’ll be a part of announcements of new investments in Australian shipping. “Australian shipping is also important in terms of workforce development, and today’s announcement of the Compact is the next step. “I might ask Teresa and Paddy if they want to say something.” TERESA LLOYD: “I just want to say that the shipowners are ready to invest and this is a great day in terms of a new era for Australian shipping. It’s been very difficult to compete for at least the last
15 years, and that’s seen the industry shrink to an almost unsustainable level. And today is a fantastic day and the shipowners are quite committed for their investment decisions and they’re looking forward to expanding into new trades, into new international opportunities that have never been available to us before. “We think it’s a fantastic thing and we thank the Minister for all his efforts to make it happen.” ANTHONY ALBANESE: “Thank you. Paddy.” PADDY CRUMLIN: “This is an emotional day for Australian merchant seafarers. The quality of life largely as a trading nation has been built on our ability to crew ships and to move our exports and our imports in a safe and efficient and productive way. That’s what’s got us through the last 200 years, and what’s going to get us through the next 200 years is exactly the same commitment. “What’s happened today is that business, the employees and government have come together in the national interest. We’ve determined that we are a shipping nation, and that shipping nation is to productively and efficiently move Australian cargoes to our own advantage, and to do it in a fashion that is the world leader and not the world follower. “This is an extraordinary suite of legislation. There has not been legislation in this industry of this kind for 100 years when the Navigation Act came into force. This will be legislation that takes us through the next 100 years in exactly the same way. It provides, further, the opportunity for regional seafarers in East Timor, in Papua New Guinea, in those islands under environmental threat of the South Pacific, all seafaring nations to join in and build the Australian shipping experience to their advantage, their national advantage, their community advantage. “It is a vision of great scope. It is legislation of great detail. It is rooted in the foundation of experience because we are a seafaring nation and the Labor Government has recognised that.” ANTHONY ALBANESE: “Thanks very much. Happy to take questions on this, and then I think my guests are on a plane so - any questions on these matters?” QUESTION: “No major reform in 100 years but 99% of trade. I suppose the question is why so long?” ANTHONY ALBANESE: “Well, we only got into government in 2007.
“What I did was refer to the House of Representatives committee the inquiry on coastal shipping. It was one of my first acts as minister. That committee reported in 2008. “In the beginning of 2009 I established a shipping advisory group made up of industry groups – the National Farmers Federation, unions – to deliver a program of how we could make the next step. “I then released a discussion paper. We then established just three groups – one on taxation chaired by Treasury, one on regulatory reform, and one on workforce development. “That made sure that this has been an incredibly consultative process. “This is a one off reform. We wanted to make sure we got it all right. This comes at a time when we’re introducing legislation to have a single national regulator, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. We’ve also produced an entire re-write of the Navigation Act 1912, one hundred years after that Act was first written, modernising it. That was introduced into the Parliament last week. “So this was a reform process that we wanted to get right. “We also produced exposure drafts of the Bills and then had another House of Representatives inquiry into them. So, this has been the most consultative process possible. It’s ensured that we’ve brought with us on this journey industry, unions and groups out there in the community who have an interest in Australian shipping. “As I said in the Parliament, there are big advantages to increasing the amount of cargo that goes on ships. The ‘Blue Highway’ is free. We needed to make sure that we did it properly. We needed to make sure that we got it right, and we have. “Quite frankly, at the beginning of the process if I had fronted up to a meeting of the Cabinet and said I got this idea, we’re going to have a zero rate of taxation for shipping without the evidence, then I don’t think it would have gone very far. This is evidencebased policy. It’s policy that’s been driven by those people who know best, those people in the workplace, whether it be the owners of ships, the operators of ships or the people who crew ships. They are the people who’ve driven this reform. “It’s that engagement, I think, that has meant that we’re here today, in spite of the National Party trying to defer it off for another inquiry for six months this process. Frankly, there wasn’t much of an argument against this legislation. What that says to me is that we’ve got it right. “I look forward to watching this rolled out in practice and making a big difference. Thank you.”
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HE HON. ANTHONY ALBANESE MP introduced a package of bills that give effect to historic reforms to the way Australia regulates all commercial vessels within Australian waters, replacing the seven existing Federal, state and territory bureaucracies and the fifty pieces of legislation they administer with one national regulator and one set of nationwide laws. “The legislation now before the Parliament will eliminate the artificial sea borders which have existed between the states since Federation. From 1 January 2013, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) will become the national regulator of all commercial vessels, not just those involved in international trade. “This will free manufacturers, operators and crews of commercial vessels from the current costly and confusing array of regulations. “The legislation also completes the first major rewrite of the maritime laws which will be administered and enforced by AMSA, the Navigation Act 2012. All up, the Act has been amended more than 70 times yet there are still provisions from the era of the sailing ships in the late 18th century. “For example, the Act prescribes the circumstances in which “lunatics” can be passengers on ships, provides immunity for a master that shots someone onboard their vessel and allows government officials to use deadly force to suppress any ‘plundering, disorder or obstruction’ when a ship is wreaked. “As a large, relatively remote island continent, Australia is particularly reliant on the maritime industry for its ongoing economic development. Indeed almost all our imports and exports are carried by ship and our busy ports manage some 10 per cent of the global sea trade. “That’s why we have acted. The creation of a national system will lift safety standards, reduce red tape and provide better protections for our fragile marine environment from pollution and accidents. “Funding ($10.2 million) to finalise and bed-down the establishment of the new national regulator was provided for in this year’s Federal Budget. It will complement the measures we are taking to reverse the decline and restore the viability of the Australia’s domestic shipping industry,” announced Anthony Albanese MP.
Anthony Albanese MP Federal Infrastructure and Transport Minister
Australian Ports News - Page 27
Ports News
Outstanding Financial Year for the port Hedland Port Authority
Another Record Breaking Year for the Port Hedland Port Authority
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URTHER to the Port Hedland Port Authority’s (PHPA) recent announcement with regards to its record throughput tonnage for the last financial year, preliminary, unaudited financial figures for the same period (2011/12 financial year) show that the Port has also had an outstanding year from a commercial perspective. Preliminary, un-audited, figures indicate a significant profit for the 2011/12 FY, with the PHPA expecting to report an after-interest profit of approximately $46 million. The appointment of a new Chairman and CEO, coupled with a renewed commercial focus in the last 12 months, has paid dividends, with the PHPA delivering a significant turnaround and much improved financial performance for the last financial year. The PHPA CEO, Roger Johnston, welcomed the preliminary, un-audited figures, “These early figures are very pleasing for the PHPA, and are the result of a clear focus by the Port Authority to operate on sound commercial terms,” said Mr Johnston. The following table compares some measures of the PHPA’s financial performance for the last two financial years (Note: the 2011/12 results
shown below are preliminary and unaudited but are a reliable indication of the port’s financial performance): Measure
2010/11
2011/12
Debt to Equity
168%
118%
Debt to Assets
43.9%
40%
Return on Assets
0.7%
6.3%
Return on Equity
2.5%
18.6%
NOTHER record breaking year of trade for the Port Hedland Port Authority (PHPA) has seen it retain its title as the world’s largest bulk export port and Australia’s largest tonnage port. PHPA figures for the 2011/12 financial year show a total throughput of 246.685 million tonnes (Mt). This is an increase in trade of over 23% (or 47 million tonnes) on last year’s record throughput tonnage of 199 Mt. PHPA CEO Roger Johnston welcomed the latest figures. “2011/12 has been another outstanding year for the port, and these figures are testimony to the significant growth the port continues to experience,” Mr Johnston said. “With global demand for mineral commodities still strong and further expansion of the port planned, we’re forecasting similar
increases in trade figures to continue in the coming years.” Other records set during the 2011/12 financial year include the record for the largest iron ore shipment to leave the port with 248,106 tonnes aboard the vessel MV Wugang Innovation, as well as the record for the largest cargo shipped on a single tide with a total of 1,040,062 tonnes aboard six vessels. “These figures are a further demonstration of how the whole PHPA team are rising to the challenge. Working with port users, marine pilots and tug operators, the PHPA have delivered yet another record annual throughput, all whilst maintaining a strong safety and environmental record. Indeed, a year to be proud of,” added Mr Johnston.
“This has been an exceptional year for the Port, and these financial figures, when coupled with the Port’s recent record trade figures, clearly demonstrate how the PHPA is maximising the dividends to the community and the State,” added Mr Johnston.
The PHPA Announces the Appointment of Captain John Finch as General Manager Operations Impressive Annual A view of the Port Hedland Port
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T IS with great pleasure that the PHPA announces the appointment of Captain John Finch, PHPA Harbour Master, to the role of General Manager Operations. Captain John Finch brings a wealth of experience and a broad knowledge of Port operations to the role, and the PHPA is delighted to have secured his services as it enters the next phase of its growth and development program. “As we welcome John into the new role, I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Lindsay Copeman for his tireless efforts in the role to date.” said PHPA CEO Roger Johnston. Lindsay, who is pursuing new endeavours in the maritime sector, will continue with the PHPA until 7 September 2012, in order to allow a comprehensive hand-over and seamless transition. Lindsay, who joined the organisation in 2001 when the Port was considerably smaller, has been part of the Port’s outstanding achievements over the last decade including setting performance benchmarks which are second to none. Lindsay has played an integral part in the Port’s transition from a small regional port, to one that is seen internationally as a Centre of Excellence, whilst overseeing the growth of trade at the Port to 250Mtpa. “These achievements for the Port and for Lindsay are noteworthy and Lindsay can be
Trade Results for Port of Newcastle
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Above: Captain John Finch, General Manager of Operations proud he leaves the Port in good stead for the future. I sincerely thank Lindsay for his dedication and support to the Port over the years, and wish him and his family all the best for the future.” said Mr Johnston.
New Record for the Largest Single Iron Ore Shipment to Leave Port Hedland
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N Thursday, 2 August 2012, the BHP Billiton loaded vessel, MV Cape Infinity (a WozMax vessel), broke the record for the largest single shipment to leave Port Hedland. The Cape Infinity was loaded with 248, 366 tonnes of iron ore, breaking the previous record by 260 tonnes. Page 26 - Australian Ports News
HE continuing strong demand for coal by Asian markets dominated the financial year trade statistics released today by Newcastle Port Corporation. NSW Ports Minister Duncan Gay said total trade throughput for the 2011-12 financial year amounted to 128.6 million tonnes, or an increase of 12.2 % on 2010-11. “Coal exports reached 121.9 million tonnes which was 13.6 million tonnes more than achieved in the 2010-11 financial year.” The total value of trade through the Port for 2011-12 was just over $20 billion. This represents a 15.1% increase on the 2010-11 financial year. “The Asian region market was again the main export destination for coal with Japan, China, South Korea and Taiwan being the major customers.” Mr Gay said while coal was the major trade commodity, there were pleasing results in other throughput for the Port of Newcastle. Total imports and exports in commodities other than coal amounted to 6.7 million tonnes which was a 6% increase on the previous financial year. “The volume of trade shows that the Port of Newcastle continues to be an important and improving facility in the Hunter Region,” he said. “More than 40 commodities are imported and exported through the port. The continued development of the coal terminals on Kooragang Island coupled with future development of the former steelworks site at Mayfield places Newcastle in a great position to take advantage of further infrastructure development that will benefit the region.” A total of 15,222 containers (TEU) moved through the port while 4,148 vessel movements were recorded during 2011-12 which was a 7% increase in movements compared to 2010-11. Highlights of the 2011-12 trading year were: Commodity
Tonnage in 2011-12
Tonnage in 2010-11
Aluminium
166,202
120,755
Coal
121,904,634
108,256,626
Fuels
440,242
373,149
General and Bulk Cargoes
1,344,741
1,323,378
Grains
1,862,691
1,329,803
Mineral Concentrates
389,383
376,176
Steel Products
302,567
291,035
Trade in alumina at 1,347,904 tonnes was about equivalent to the 2010-11 volume of 1,353,487 tonnes. Trade volumes were down for grinding media, petroleum coke, fertilisers and woodchips. Footnote: Total Trade Throughput (imports and exports): •2011-12 128,610,354 tonnes •2010-11 114,575,744 tonnes •2009-10 103,025,997 tonnes
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