PORTS NORTH will have a new board chair as of 1 January 2026 following the latest round of Queensland Government appointments to government-owned corporations.
Ben Kidston, currently a Port of Townsville director, will step down from that role in order to replace Russell Beer, whose term expires at year’s end.
The government said Mr Kidston’s appointment, and that of Justin Parer as chair of energy company Stanwell, would complete a renewal of leadership at all 11 of Queensland’s energy, ports, water and finance GOCs.
Mr Paper will relinquish his directorship at Ports North in order to take up the Stanwell appointment.
Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates welcomed the new appointees, and thanked outgoing chairs for their service.
“With these new appointments, the Crisafulli Government is delivering new leadership for all,” Minister Bates said.
“Alongside other directors, Mr Parer and Mr Kidston will lead Stanwell and Ports North in refocusing on financial and operational performance, so they can deliver for Queenslanders.
“Our government-owned generators and ports provide essential services – delivering affordable, reliable and sustainable energy and critical infrastructure to support economic growth and trade."
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg also welcomed the appointment of Mr Kidston to the Board of Ports North: “Mr Kidston brings deep legal expertise in commercial and corporate law and will provide leadership to ensure Ports North continues to deliver on the Government’s objectives.”
Ports North operates the ports of Cairns, Cape Flattery, Karumba, Mourilyan, Skardon River, Quintell Beach, Thursday Island, Burketown and Cooktown.