Southern ports wants community input

AUSTRALIA’S major ports all have community programs of different shapes and sizes.

Some like the Port Authority of NSW provide grants, in its case up to $15,000 for projects in their area, NSW Ports hands out one-off grants up to $25,000 for not-for-profit organisations and Mid West Ports supports environmental initiatives, maritime education, community welfare programs, youth leadership, and Indigenous projects with grants up to $10,000.

Southern Ports in Western Australia’s south has taken the approach of setting up Port Community Consultation Committees for the ports of Albany, Bunbury and Esperance that it operates to bring ideas and feedback to Southern Ports. 

Southern Ports CEO, Keith Wilks said the PCCC plays an important role creating two-way dialogue between Southern Ports, members of the community and other interested organisations.

It also provides an opportunity to directly talk to members of the community about business undertaken at the Port.

“Our PCCCs are not our only direct conduit with our communities, but they are a very important one,” Mr Wilks said.

“We’re always keen to share information about what we’re doing and where we’re heading – but perhaps most crucially, the PCCC meetings allow us to hear about the interests, concerns or questions that our communities may have about our operations.”

Paul MacGillivary has been a member of the Bunbury PCCC since 2022 and stepped into the role of chair last year.

He said he knew the role was for him when he saw it advertised after spending almost five decades in the maritime industry.

“It is important that members of the community recognise and appreciate the significance of the Port for regional economic development and employment,” he said.

“Many people look at the anchorages, see the ships sitting there and have no idea what they are here for.

“I am keen to promote more and improved dialogue between Southern Ports, interested parties and the wider community as discussions help identify and clarify key issues.”

The Bunbury PCCC meets quarterly for regular updates covering various operational areas and often features guest presentations. 

Mr MacGillivary said community members interested in joining the PCCC did not need to come to the role with a maritime background.

“Effective PCCC members need to have a sense of wonder, curiosity and interest in the Port's current operations and in its future development,” Mr MacGillivary said.

“We’re especially interested in applicants who can bring strong community connections and networks to the table, as they’re a source of valuable and varied feedback to and from our PCCC.

“Our current members come from diverse backgrounds, and all have been very effective in their role.”

Expressions of interest to join the Port of Bunbury PCCC are open until Friday 6 June.