Port of Townsville Limited has completed a $6.5 million upgrade at Berths 3 and 4, increasing capacity and improving operational efficiency at its busiest quay.
The project extends the operating reach of the port’s Liebherr Ship-to-Shore crane by 360 metres, allowing it to service a total of 550 metres of quayline across both berths.
Port of Townsville General Manager of Operations, Projects and Safety David McLoughlin said the upgrade would deliver significant benefits for customers and future trade growth.
“Berth 3 is one of our highest demand berths, and extending the crane access provides great efficiency gain for our customers,” McLoughlin said.
“With the Ship-to-Shore crane now able to work across both Berths 3 and 4, we can support future trade growth by handling greater volumes and turn ships around more efficiently.”
More than 85 per cent of the works were delivered locally, with BMD Constructions leading the project alongside North Queensland subcontractors.
BMD northern region general manager Gerard Keynes said the project strengthened the area’s economic pipeline while supporting long-term port growth.
“We delivered this project for the Port of Townsville, supporting growth at northern Australia’s largest container and automotive port for decades to come,” Keynes said.
“We drew on over 30 years of experience in North Queensland, with a strong focus on engaging local workforce and suppliers.”
The works generated more than 13,000 labour hours. Construction began in July 2025 and reached practical completion in February 2026, with port operations maintained throughout the upgrade period.