A new 14-hectare Project Cargo Laydown Area has been completed at the Port of Townsville, expanding the port’s ability to handle large-scale cargo and supporting future investment across North Queensland.
The development is designed to meet growing demand from sectors such as critical minerals, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy, which rely on the movement of oversized and complex equipment through regional ports. The laydown area provides dedicated space for handling and temporarily storing large project cargo, improving the port’s operational capability and efficiency.
The project was delivered with a workforce that was 90 per cent local, contributing to regional employment during construction and reinforcing the port’s role as a key economic hub for the north.
Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates says the investment ensures North Queensland is positioned to capture future project opportunities.
“North Queensland has enormous economic potential, but major projects rely on the right infrastructure being in place,” Bates says.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg adds that the new facility strengthens the state’s freight and logistics network.
“Investments like this prove the Government is committed to building stronger supply chains and ensuring goods can move efficiently and reliably,” Mickelberg says.
By increasing local handling capacity, the facility is expected to reduce the need for long-haul transport to other ports, lowering freight costs and easing congestion on key corridors such as the Bruce Highway.
Member for Townsville Adam Baillie says the expansion reinforces Townsville’s role as a gateway for trade.
Port of Townsville General Manager David McLoughlin says the project enhances supply chain resilience, with upgraded civil works and infrastructure enabling the safe handling of high volumes of heavy cargo from ship to site.
