Work underway on $36 million Multipurpose Terminal berth extension
Construction is underway on a $36 million waterside berth extension at Port of Newcastle’s Multipurpose Terminal in Mayfield.
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Construction is underway on a $36 million waterside berth extension at Port of Newcastle’s Multipurpose Terminal (MPT), strengthening the Port’s role as an enabler and key trade gateway for a range of industries and projects across New South Wales, including the rollout of renewable energy.
The berth extension project, which has been awarded to tenderer Australian-based Brady Marine and Civil, will allow for larger vessels up to 300 metres to call at the berth. Previously, vessels were limited to 220 metres.
Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody said the MPT site is a vital precinct in the Port’s long-term strategy to diversify its trade portfolio, bolster supply chain resilience, and stimulate regional economic growth.
“We’ve been clear that trade diversification is a key strategic objective for PON and this is a vision that is shared and supported by our partners, our stakeholders, and our community,” Mr Carmody said.
“The berth extension project at Mayfield is yet another step in realising this vision for our region.
“Through this project, we are turning our diversification commitments into visible delivery, supporting regional jobs and positioning Port of Newcastle as the preferred, long-term gateway for New South Wales importers and exporters.”
Construction is expected to take around 15 months (weather dependent) and create around 30 jobs for local workers. There are several highly specialised roles required, including underwater divers.
The extension compliments the Port’s previous investment of $28.4 million in 2022 in two Liebherr LHM 550 cranes for wind turbine handling, in addition to containers and other project cargoes, including batteries.
“The importance of the Port of Newcastle in Australia’s energy future cannot be overstated. We are the entry point for the oversized over mass cargo of every single project within the
Central West Orana Renewable Energy Zone and over 90% of all wind farm projects across NSW,” Mr Carmody said.
“Optimising our infrastructure is an investment in our region’s future and in the future of Australian energy.
“For 25 years, the Port has been Australia’s leading exporter of energy to Asia. Now, we have also become the main gateway for importing the components that will power the next phase of our nation’s energy transition. Furthermore, once our Clean Energy Precinct is fully realised, we intend to use the electrons produced in the REZs to export clean energy to the world.
“This is how the Port of Newcastle ensures the Hunter Region continues its legacy as Australia’s leading energy export port for generations to come.”
Further information about the MPT berth extension is available on the project page.