PORT Kembla and how it services both the Illawarra and New South Wales were discussed during a visit by US consul-general Sharon Hudson-Dean.

The tour was organised in conjunction with Ports Australia.

The tour was joined by the Port Authority of New South Wales head of operations Port Kembla and south coast, Peter Ernst, and NSW Ports’ general manager planning and infrastructure, Peter Engelen.

Officers from the NSW Police Force Marine Area Command led the tour, sharing their vessel and knowledge of the waterways.

The Consul General learnt about the operations of the port, how it serves the local area, and how it is responsible for the state’s largest turnover in motor vehicles.

Ports Australia’s CEO, Mike Gallacher was on the tour and spoke afterwards about how important these relationships were in building a wider understanding of port operations.

The US consul-general Sharon Hudson-Dean with Ports Australia CEO Mike Gallacher. Credit: Ports Australia

“It’s important for us to show close partners like the Consul General first-hand the fascinating ways these trade gateways tick and there’s no better way to do that than get out on the water and see the port up close,” Mr Gallacher said.

“Both Peter Ernst and Peter were kind to share their time and vast knowledge of ports with the consul general. “The ability to turn to the port professionals who form our membership is one we don’t take for granted and one we’ll continue to use to strengthen relationships with important partners such as Sharon Hudson-Dean.”