Port ‘option’ for containers

JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A new study revealing predictions of “massive” growth in container movements has prompted a rethink on using Port of Geelong, according to State Government.
A spokesperson for Ports Minister Denis Napthine said using Geelong to take some of the container load from Melbourne was an “option”.
The former Labor Government ruled out a container facility for Geelong.
The Container Logistics Chain Study revealed 23 per cent of exports of containers originated in regional Victoria, the majority from the greater Geelong region.
“The study was based on the Port of Melbourne but it demonstrates a massive growth in expected container trade,” the spokesperson said.
“The Government has already flagged moving the car trade to Geelong as well as the option of using other ports to deal with the container load.
“But there are no immediate plans for a container facility in Geelong.”
Committee for Geelong executive director Peter Dorling welcomed the news.
“Everything is on the table as far as Geelong is concerned. We would be happy to be part of any future study,” Mr Dorling said.
“You have a city willing to look at all the options. We have an established port keen to look at growth in any capacity.
‘With Geelong’s projected population increase, container trade will double.
“Hats off to the minister for having a look at it and being open to the options.”
Mr Napthine said the study was the most comprehensive analysis yet of container movements in Victoria.
“The Government is committed to further developing the efficiency and capacity of Victoria’s ports,” he said.
“The information provided by this study tracks over 75,000 container movements and will enable the government to better understand the changing logistics environment.”
The study found that container traffic originated mostly from the western suburbs, 26 per cent, and regional Victoria, 23 per cent.
Ninety per cent of imported containers taken by road travelled less than 50 kilometres to their initial destination.