The Port of Newcastle has released a video showing the potential design for its new fully automated 2 million TEU capacity container terminal, which it says will make it the largest and best-connected port on the eastern seaboard of Australia.
The port is only being used at 50% capacity, which gives it significant room to grow. While already a shipping and trade hub, its expansion is set to increase the competitiveness of New South Wales’ exporters and importers.
Furthermore, it claims exporters’ transport costs could be cut by approximately 30% due to its close proximity to inland logistics hubs – and an increase in volume will alleviate congestion issues at the Port of Botany, Sydney and the regional supply chain.
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The port has proposed a three-stage process to build the new container terminal, which will see it begin operations with an annual capacity of 350,000 TEU.
From there, it will expand to 1.2 million TEU after the building of two new berths and an increase in rail capacity.
Stage 3 will see it reach its 2 million TEU target with the help of 700 meters of berths and quay line, as well as associated landside infrastructure.
Another advantage to the new container terminal will be the expansion of the port’s shipping channel, which will enable to service 18,000 TEU vessels.
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