SPOTLIGHT ON: Port or Terminal of the Year Award

WITH seaports being key to Australian economic growth, the category of Port or Terminal of the Year is always keenly sought after.

2026 Sponsor

Last year the winner was Darwin Port, Australia’s closest container terminal to Asia and much discussed due to its ownership structure.

Judges last year noted Darwin Port’s significant contribution to the economy of the Northern Territory and expanded capacity in the form of a new container yard.

Commenting to DCN after the award, a Darwin Port spokesperson said the award was “a tremendous honour”.

“It gave public industry recognition for the outstanding efforts of the port team, our stakeholders and service providers during a particularly demanding year,” the spokesperson said.

“Without efficient ports the supply chain does not work and without an efficient supply chain ports struggle. The whole of the supply chain in our country is dependent upon a port continually improving its offering for the benefit of all. The recognition is valuable.”

The spokesperson said to be recognised as the category winner over several larger ports around the country certainly had “a positive impact on the morale of the team”.

“It was great for the broader port team to have some positive news because we all knew how hard we had worked,” the spokesperson said.

Returning as sponsor this year is Svitzer Australia who last year said the DCN Awards remained “a highlight on the industry calendar”.

“It’s a privilege to be part of an event that recognises our customers and peers for their outstanding efforts,” a Svitzer spokesperson said.

“Supporting the awards is a meaningful way to celebrate excellence and to promote a sector that is vital to keeping our economy moving and maintaining our quality of life.”

The awards this year are scheduled for Thursday 26 November and for the first time are being held in Brisbane, the venue being The Star overlooking the Brisbane River.

Nominations are now open across all award categories. Winners are to be announced at the 2026 DCN Australian Shipping & Maritime Industry Awards night at the Star Brisbane on Thursday 26 November. For more information, visit the DCN Awards site.