The Queensland government has invested in critical port infrastructure with construction underway on a multi-million-dollar container depot at the Port of Mackay to unlock global container trade for the region.
North Queensland Bulk Ports (NQBP) is developing the 1.3-hectare container depot, the first of its kind in the region, which will enable regular containerised imports and exports directly through Mackay.
The new depot will allow exporters and importers to route goods directly through Mackay, bypassing distant ports such as Brisbane, thereby reducing costs and speeding up turnaround times. The depot will also give local businesses and producers a more cost-effective pathway to domestic and international markets.
NQBP CEO Brendan Webb said: “Mackay’s strategic location—close to major mining and agricultural hubs—means industries can rely on a more robust and flexible logistics network with a dedicated container facility at the port.
“The new container depot will allow regional exporters and importers to move goods directly through Mackay, eliminating the need for long-haul transport to other ports.”
Webb said the new depot will be able to handle current demand and future expansion.
“NQBP market studies show a strong demand in the region for the depot, with a steady build-up of trade in the coming years to around 7,000 Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEU) a year through Mackay,” Webb said.
“Built for heavy-duty performance, it will be reach-stacker ready, have reefer capacity, efficient empty container management and set up to handle growth from day one.”
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said the project will deliver jobs and boost the economy.
“This project will improve road safety, get trucks off the Bruce Highway, and help build a stronger economy in North Queensland,” Mickelberg said.