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The Port of Brisbane, under the leadership of CEO Neil Stephens, had a positive year in 2024, with strong trade outcomes and investments in property and infrastructure to support the port community. The port saw a 2.7% increase in total trade tonnage, with a significant growth in agricultural exports, particularly in refrigerated meat, sorghum, and chickpeas. Motor vehicle imports decreased by 6.3% due to normalizing after a notable increase in 2023. Coal exports saw a notable increase, with a 70% year-on-year boost to 4.1 million tonnes.
The port is also investing in infrastructure, including the construction of a warehouse facility for new customer Bridgestone Australia and the Port West Industrial Estate. The proposed 25-year Port of Brisbane Channel Enhancement Project aims to improve shipping channel efficiency, reduce vessel emissions, and cater for larger commercial vessels in the future. The project will require a comprehensive environmental impact statement to address state and federal government requirements.
Decarbonization and environmental initiatives are also a focus for the port, achieving net zero emissions in 2024, four years ahead of schedule. The port is investing in rooftop solar and battery storage and is working on reducing its scope three emissions.
Elsewhere, Ports North, which operates nine regional and remote ports in Far North Queensland, reported a positive year, with 93 cruise ships visiting Cairns, and the completion of the Horn Island passenger wharf. The port is also working on expanding its role and growing trade in the region.
In Central Queensland, Gladstone Ports Corporation had a strong performance, facilitating a record 118.9 million tonnes of trade, including coal, LNG, alumina, and associated products. The port is working on harnessing new technologies and emerging markets, including renewable hydrogen and ammonia.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation also reported a positive year, with the Port of Mackay reaching a significant milestone, celebrating 85 years of excellence. The port is investigating projects to expand and diversify trade, including the development of laydown areas for large project cargo.