Huge investments on horizon for GeelongPort

GeelongPort is working hard to keep ag industry supplied with fuel and fertilisers, while also investing in a major development that will bring a Tassie icon to Corio Quay.

Plans for GeelongPort’s new Spirit of Tasmania terminal, which will open in 2022. Picture: Supplied

GEELONGPORT is investing in projects to boost tourism and hospitality, while ensuring trade in its main cargoes of fuel, building supplies and fertilisers remains strong.

GeelongPort chief executive Brett Winter said pandemic restrictions had suppressed consumer demand for some of the port’s most significant trades, including fuel and building supplies, but volumes had reduced just slightly in the past financial year, down to 11.5 million tonnes from 12 million.

“Due to ongoing travel restrictions in Victoria, demand for bulk fuel trades will continue to be substantially impacted until restrictions are eased,” Mr Winter said.

“Fertiliser trade has increased, supporting northern Victoria’s broadacre and pastoral farming, contributing to what is expected to be a bumper harvest season.”

Geelong Port CEO Brett Winter on site at Corio Quay. Soon to be home to the Spirit of Tasmania. Picture: Peter Ristevski

The Spirit of Tasmania passenger ferry at Station Pier in Melbourne on August 26. The ferry will move its Victorian port operations to Corio Quay in Geelong from 2022. Picture: Robert Cianflone/Getty Images

By investing in new projects, the port hopes to contribute to regional Victoria’s economic recovery.

Projects include a new passenger and freight terminal for Spirit of Tasmania, which is moving its Victorian port operations from Melbourne to Corio Quay from 2022.

The 12ha development will include a passenger building, vehicle parking, crew accommodation, cafe and children’s play area.

The port is also working with industry to build a new LNG import terminal.

GeelongPort manages $7 billion of trade annually with more than 600 vessel visits a year.

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