CONSTRUCTION is underway on a multi-million-dollar container depot at the Port of Mackay, tipped to unlock new global trade opportunities for Central Queensland.
The 1.3-hectare container depot, being delivered by North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP), will enable regular containerised imports and exports directly through Mackay.
NQBP chief executive Brendan Webb said this meant local businesses and producers would have the opportunity to send and receive goods directly, without the need to route freight through more distant ports such as Brisbane, saving time, reducing costs, and boosting local jobs.
“Mackay’s strategic location — close to major mining and agricultural hubs — means industries can rely on a more robust and flexible logistics network with a dedicated container facility at the port,” Mr Webb said.
“The new container depot will allow regional exporters and importers to move goods directly through Mackay, eliminating the need for long-haul transport to other ports.
“This unlocks significant savings in freight costs and time, while also reducing heavy vehicle traffic on the Bruce Highway.
“As well as safer roads and more efficient trade, having a local container facility also strengthens the region’s supply chain against weather disruptions and reduces transport emissions.”
Mr Webb said the container depot was being built to handle current demand and future expansion, including reefer (refrigerated container) capability.
“NQBP market studies show a strong demand in the region for the depot, with a steady build-up of trade in the coming years to around 7,000TEU a year through Mackay,” he said.
“Built for heavy-duty performance, it will be reach-stacker ready, have reefer capacity, efficient empty container management and set up to handle growth from day one.”
By enabling goods to move directly through Mackay, exporters and importers will no longer have to route freight through distant ports such as Brisbane, reducing logistics costs, speeding up turnaround times and strengthening the region’s economic competitiveness.
A new container terminal is a practical investment, Minister Brent Mickelberg said.
Transport minister Brent Mickelberg said the project was a practical investment in regional Queensland that would deliver jobs and long-term economic growth.
“This is the Crisafulli Government backing regional Queensland with real infrastructure that strengthens the economy and supports local jobs,” Mr Mickelberg said.
“This project will improve road safety, get trucks off the Bruce Highway, and help build a stronger economy in North Queensland.”