Hunter Region: $258 Billion in Trade Over 10 Years!

Port Kembla emergency exercise – 17 May 2018

Port Authority of NSW is proudly celebrating 10 years together as a State-Owned Corporation, and in Newcastle that decade has seen its operations facilitate a staggering $258 billion in trade for the Hunter region and state economy.

Port Authority of NSW CEO Captain Philip Holliday said over the last 10 years, Port Authority has ensured the safe navigation of over 22,000 commercial vessels through Newcastle harbour, facilitating the movement of 1.6 billion tonnes of cargo.

“Our people are locals so are personally invested in the region’s prosperity. They take great pride in our everyday operations that keep trade moving in and out of our harbour 365 days, 24/7,” Captain Holliday said.

“The decade ahead is shaping up to be equally successful and we will continue to facilitate the region’s trade while working on how to support greater benefits to the region by investing in cutting edge technology, training and new opportunities.

“This includes our focus on expanding the cruising market in the Hunter that will inject millions of dollars into the economy, support local businesses and create jobs over the next 10 years.”

Harbour Master of Newcastle Captain Vikas Bangia said he was incredibly proud of his team and leading a publicly owned local business that delivers real benefits to the region.

“Port Authority’s team are highly professional, and I am very grateful for their commitment and contributions over the past 10 years,” Captain Bangia said.

“Though port operations can be challenging and dynamic, it is very rewarding and satisfying to know what we do makes a real difference.”

Captain Bangia said the last 10 years have brought many challenges like the pandemic and extended flood events in the harbour.

“I am so proud of how our local team kept trade moving during the challenging period by quickly pivoting to adopt strict safety protocols that minimised disruptions and kept the port open to the world.”

“We will continue to be a leading Authority in the maritime industry, ready for whatever opportunities and new industries arise for the region. We will achieve this by continuing to prioritise training and innovation opportunities to adapt to a changing global shipping environment.

“With customised training for our highly skilled pilots and marine operations personnel, we continue to evolve to meet the needs of the global maritime industry, accommodating larger or specialised vessels which require precision in the harbour.”