SEVERE rainfall and flooding in South East Queensland over the past week has disrupted operations at the Port of Brisbane.
Several days of intense rainfall damaged properties and washed debris into the Brisbane River, which flows past the port.
In a notice to customers, Port of Brisbane chief financial officer Neil Stephens said the regional harbour master has suspended vessel movements in and out of the port.
“PBPL will begin surveying critical navigational areas, including the channel, swing basins and berth pockets, as soon as it is safe to do so this morning (under the direction of the RHM),” Mr Stephens said in a statement.
“PBPL is also working with the RHM on a plan to remove debris in and around waterside infrastructure.”
He also noted a vessel broke its lines last night at the port, however the vessel is now safely in Moreton Bay, and will be moved to anchorage when it is safe to do so.
In terms of landside operations, minor damage has been reported on a number of port roads across all precincts, however it is understood there are currently no access limitations on port roads.
“There are no rail movements in and out of the BMT due to broader rail network issues, however the BMT itself remains operational,” Mr Stephens said.
In an email update Container Transport Alliance Australia director Neil Chambers reported disruptions to landside logistics operations as flood waters and road restrictions prevented drivers and other workers from getting to work.
“Also, numerous customers’ premises and warehouses have been affected and are reported as closed,” he said.
“Regional routes are impacted such as to Ipswich and Toowoomba, affecting export cargoes.”
Stevedores at the Port of Brisbane have continued to operate throughout the day. So far, they said cargo was not being diverted to other locations, but there are shipping delays.
A spokesperson for Patrick Terminals Monday afternoon confirmed to DCN that the terminal was operational, but vessel movements had been suspended due to debris in the river.
“We have one ship alongside, which we will complete, however its departure is subject to the harbour master’s decision regarding resumption of vessel movements,” the spokesperson said.
“Our landside receival and delivery is working as normal.”
The spokesperson said there had been no damage to infrastructure aside from a few leaks in the tower.
“Some of the straddles need a good dry out, but we are operational,” the spokesperson said.
“We are working closely with road transport providers. We have engaged with CTAA and we will not be levying any no-show charges today and will be extending time up and vessel receival periods as necessary.”
A spokesperson for Qube said operations are continuing.
“There are challenges for customers and employees who live in flood affected regions in accessing the port,” they said.
“The team are continuing to work around challenges and support customers.”
Meanwhile, DP World Australia also said there had been no damage at its terminal or berth areas, and its container stacks remain intact.
“There is no impact to landside operations, which will continue working to the normal schedule and access to Fisherman Island and the terminal remains clear,” a DPWA spokesperson told DCN.
And Hutchison, in a notice to customers, acknowledged that there were delays in vessel operations at its Brisbane terminal.
Additional reporting by Ian Ackerman.
