STRENGTHENING trade and supply chains in North Queensland was the aim of upgrades to berths three and four at Port of Townsville that were completed recently.
According to a joint statement from the state government and the port, the upgrade removed a key bottleneck by extending the operating reach of the port’s Liebherr ship‑to‑shore crane across both berths, improving vessel turnaround times for containerised, general cargo and other trade‑critical freight.
Checking out the Liebherr crane. Image: Port of Townsville
“The project reflects the Crisafulli government’s commitment to building a stronger economy that supports local jobs, respecting Queenslanders’ money and delivering projects on time and on budget,” the statement read.
Trade minister Ros Bates said the upgrade focused upon productivity and value for Queenslanders.
“This upgrade strengthens the Port of Townsville’s ability to support trade and jobs by removing a long-standing capacity constraint at its busiest berths,” Ms Bates said.
“The port’s on-time and on-budget delivery of this key project demonstrates the Crisafulli government’s commitment to delivering practical infrastructure that improves efficiency and delivers economic opportunity for Queenslanders.”
Port of Townsville general manager of operations, projects, and safety David McLoughlin said the upgrade formed part of a broader program of works to accommodate larger cargo ships.
“Berth 3 is one of our highest demand berths, and extending the crane access provides great efficiency gain for our customers,” Mr McLoughlin said.
“With the ship-to-shore crane now able to work across both Berths 3 and 4, we can support future trade growth by handling greater volumes and turn ships around more efficiently.”
More than 85% of the work was delivered locally, with BMD Constructions’ Townsville team leading the project and supported by local subcontractors.
BMD Northern Region general manager Gerard Keynes said the project was the result of BMD's collaborative, local first approach.
“We delivered this project for the Port of Townsville, supporting growth at northern Australia’s largest container and automotive port for decades to come,” Mr Keynes said.
The project began in July 2025 and reached practical completion this month, and was delivered while maintaining continuous operations at Berths 3 and 4 for the duration of the construction period.
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie said the upgrade would have an immediate impact.
“Upon completion, people who work at the port will see the difference straight away, with smoother operations and ships moving through more efficiently,” Mr Baillie said.
“The port is critical to Townsville’s economy and industry, supporting thousands of local jobs and keeping our region connected to national and international markets.”