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Posted by David Sexton
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24 June, 2025
A “GENERATIONAL shift” in operations is how the start of automated straddle activities at Patricks’ Brisbane terminal has been remembered 20 years on.
A celebration was held onsite last Saturday, with more than 670 guests enjoying a fun day with circus-style rides, food trucks, crane simulator demonstrations, refrigerated container experiences and behind-the-scenes terminal and tower tours.
“Since launching AutoStrad operations in 2005, our Brisbane terminal has led the world in innovation, safety and performance,” Patricks said in a social media post.
“Saturday was all about celebrating the people who have made it happen and the families who have supported them every step of the way.”
Patricks terminal manager Matt Hollamby said the start of Brisbane AutoStrad operations was more than marking a technological achievement; it was about acknowledging “a moment that redefined what was possible for Australian container terminals”.
“When we launched automated straddle carriers in 2005, it was a first not only for Australia, but for the global stevedoring industry,” Mr Hollamby said.
“Brisbane AutoStrad marked the beginning of a generational shift in terminal operations. Today, automation is a key part of the Australian waterfront and we are proud to have pioneered automation at our Patrick Terminals - Brisbane AutoStrad.”
Mr Hollamby said automation involved Australian technology, developed by Patrick Terminals in conjunction with the Centre for Field Robotics at the University of Sydney.
“It is a home-grown form of stevedoring automation that has attracted the attention of the world,” he said.
“Indeed, the Patrick Terminals - Brisbane Autostrad was only the third terminal in the world to embrace automation and the first to deploy automated straddle carriers.”
Mr Hollamby said the commitment to technological innovation had continued in the twenty years since the opening of the terminal with many more advances, such as the Pondus weighing initiative, automated truck handling, the KOMI safety application and the refinement of paperless gate entry.
“While the technology and innovation behind our terminal has transformed the way we operate, it is our people who have brought that vision to life every day for the past twenty years,” he said.
“This celebration was about recognising their contribution and the unwavering support of their families.”
View images from the event.
