Record livestock exports and new trade opportunities marked a strong trading year for the Port of Townsville in 2006/2007.

Transport Minister John Mickel said the port continued to be a major contributor to the north Queensland economy. Mr Mickel today tabled the Townsville Port Authority's annual report in Queensland Parliament.

"The port recorded its biggest shipment on record of livestock with 22,623 live cattle, sheep and goats being exported during the year," Mr Mickel said.

"It also handled record imports of motor vehicles and zinc.

Close to 10 million tonnes of cargo passed over the Townsville wharves during the year.

"Townsville Port Authority is pursuing opportunities to increase trade through the port, diversify its revenue and increase profitability."

Construction of a proposed cruise ship terminal there is expected to start in 2008, subject to the findings of an Environmental Impact Statement.

Fast facts from the Port of Townsville's 2006/2007 annual report:

• 677 cargo ships docked at the port. The majority were bulk carriers (253), followed by general cargo vessels (207), tankers (114), car carriers (51), bunkers (6) and other vessels (46).
• Total revenue for the port was $36.92 million, with a net profit of $7.16 million.
• The port is the largest exporter of molasses and raw sugar in Australia.
• Port activity and industries utilising the port are responsible for over 8000 regional jobs – that's 10% of total employment in north Queensland.
• The port welcomed 35 naval and seven passenger ships during 2006-07.
• Incitec Pivot exports the largest volume of high analysis fertiliser from Queensland, through the port.
• Townsville is Queensland's third-largest multi-cargo port.
• It has approximately 80 employees.

Downloading the 2006 / 2007 Annual Report:

A complete PDF version of the 2006 / 2007 annual report is available for online viewing. A print quality version can be obtained from the Port Authority upon request.

TPA-2006-2007_Annual_Report_Web.pdf (3.37 MB)

For previous Annual Reports, visit http://www.townsville-port.com.au/annual_reports