Qube, Mirrat shortlisted for port expansion

The Pilbara Ports Authority has short-listed two specialist logistics companies for the development of new general cargo facilities at Port Hedland.

The companies – ASX-listed Qube Holdings, which is headquartered in Sydney, and Melbourne International RoRo and Auto Terminal, the Australian subsidiary of international shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen – have been invited to deliver detailed proposals with a view to have the facility operational in 2021.

The unsuccessful bidders for the project included Mineral Resources.

The site is located at Lumsden Point, at the south-eastern end of the inner harbour, and can accommodate a logistics hub, general cargo wharves, and cargo lay-down areas.

The PPA has invested over $80 million in land remediation, dredging and reclamation works at the location, which was granted environmental approval in 2014.

In a statement, the PPA said the facilities could be eligible for a Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility loan.

PPA general manager of development and trade Lyle Banks said the quality of the submissions during the expressions of interest period signalled strong industry confidence in the growth potential of the Pilbara.

“Developing Lumsden Point will increase port capacity for businesses currently operating in the Pilbara and support emerging opportunities, including lithium and other battery minerals and agribusiness exports, and provide an opportunity for private sector investment in vital infrastructure,” he said.

“We expect that the project will further facilitate trade opportunities between the Pilbara and international markets and provide more investment and job opportunities in the region.”