Townsville Port Authority will celebrate the 110th anniversary of its formation by hosting a luncheon for Port customers and stakeholders tomorrow.

The Hon. Paul Lucas MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads, (and the Authority’s portfolio Minister) will address guests at the event to be held at the Southbank Hotel and Convention Centre.

Ron McLean, Chairman of the Townsville Port Authority, said: “From its development in the early 1860’s, the Port of Townsville has served the people and communities of the region by providing an efficient gateway for trade and commerce.  Some 30 years after the establishment of the Port, the local business community sought to take control of the direction of the Port, to ensure its development best met the commercial demands of the region.  As a consequence, the Townsville Harbour Board was established and held their first meeting in 1896. 

The 110th anniversary is a significant milestone for the Port of Townsville, and the region it serves, as well as the City of Townsville, as the Port continues to play an integral part in Queensland’s economy.  Today, the Port is recognised as a world-class gateway for commerce and trade.  Almost 10 million tonnes of cargo is handled each year through the Port generating $30 million of revenue to the Port.  Exports from Townsville are valued at more than $3 billion per annum and represent more than 12% of the State's export cargo by value.

“The Port and the city of Townsville have always had a close relationship, which has been essential to their mutual development and success, and we are confident that this relationship will continue.  Townsville Port Authority is dedicated to furthering strong economic and social relationships with the city and the wider region to ensure its continued growth and prosperity.” Mr McLean said.

 Media Release - 110 Anniversary of Port Authority Formation.pdf (42.21 KB)