Millions of tons of grain from farmers across regional NSW continue to be transported via Port Kembla to reach global markets as the state enjoys another bumper export season.
NSW Ports CEO Marika Calfas said 3.4 million tons of grain had been exported from Port Kembla to international markets in the past financial year and is set to continue this year.
“Port Kembla is the largest grain export port on Australia’s east coast, connecting farmers and producers from paddock to port to reach global markets,” she said.
Port Kembla has two grain terminals – GrainCorp and Quattro Ports – that export a variety of grains from the NSW market.
“The port’s direct road and rail links support the state’s agricultural exporters, with the majority of grain arriving at the port on trains. In the past financial year alone, about 1200 trains carrying grain bound for customers overseas arrived at Port Kembla,” Ms Calfas said.
Ms Calfas said farmers rely on strong road and rail connections to move their produce to the port.
“While Port Kembla is well connected to the regions, ongoing investments in road and rail infrastructure and capacity are critical to ensure a reliable and resilient network capable of handling freight growth into the future,” she said.
“Last year, we saw the impact of extreme weather events that closed the Moss Vale-Unanderra rail line for seven months for repairs – costing exporters time and money. NSW Ports, alongside other Port Kembla industries and Business Illawarra, continues to advocate for investment in the Maldon-Dombarton dual freight-passenger line.
“This essential rail line would build network resilience for key exporters, while connecting Illawarra residents to the growing South West Sydney region and Western Sydney Aerotropolis. It will also provide future capacity to handle the State’s growing trade needs.”
Following a vessel departure on Monday (27 March 2023), GrainCorp will have exported its millionth tonne of grain through the port since October 2022, with its terminal managing another massive export season.
Image: The vessel, carrying the millionth ton of grain to be exported at GrainCorp, being loaded at Port Kembla on Monday (27 March).
GrainCorp Port Operations Manager Kevin Edward said it was fantastic that NSW growers have had several productive seasons and that GrainCorp can help connect their grain to the world.
“This has led to a strong export program out of Port Kembla, with up to 25 grain trains arriving each week from regional NSW, carrying wheat, barley and canola,” he said.
“It’s a 24-hour rail cycle through to Port Kembla from our regional sites in NSW, making it one of the most operationally efficient port zones in NSW.”
For media inquiries, contact:
Brooke.Eggleton@nswports.com.au | 0419 684 953