Multi-million-dollar Port of Townsville works go local

Port of Townsville is providing North Queensland with critical enabling infrastructure with the construction of a multi-million-dollar Project Cargo Laydown Area at its East Port Precinct.

The 14-hectare laydown facility will support future industry development and renewable energy projects across the region.

Mendi Constructions has been contracted to deliver the transport network upgrades and laydown facility which will serve as temporary storage for wind turbine components, including blades of up to 100 metres long, and other project cargo imports.

Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby said this development is an important step toward meeting the increasing demand for future Port infrastructure to facilitate the significant pipeline of planned investments in the region.

"The Port is integral in maintaining efficient international supply chains into the future, as well as securing the North and North West Queensland region as a hub for global trade growth,” Ms Crosby said.

“This facility will support emerging industries like renewable energy, advanced manufacturing as well as existing sectors like critical minerals as they continue to grow.”

Mendi Constructions Contractors Representative Chris MacDonald said Mendi is a Townsville based, second generation family-owned business which is proud to have helped facilitate the
region’s development in its more than 65 years of operations.

“This project is directly supporting 30 full time equivalent positions, including three apprenticeships and traineeships, with 90 per cent of the workforce being locally sourced,” Mr MacDonald said.

“We’re passionate about being involved in projects that will improve and deliver critical infrastructure across North Queensland.

“We believe the East Port Development Project is an opportunity to showcase our capabilities, while creating lasting benefits for the Townsville community.

“It is one that will ensure global connectivity and support future economic activity in the region."

Ms Crosby said the Port was pleased to partner with the locally owned and operated company to deliver this critical piece of infrastructure.

“It’s rewarding to see Mendi lead this development, providing employment opportunities for the local workforce and in-turn supporting the regional economy,” Ms Crosby said.

“We’re looking forward to working with Mendi throughout this project.”

Construction works are expected to be complete in mid-2026.

All material required to build the laydown area will be sourced from CAMM Quarry and Concrete, a subsidiary of the Doyle Group of companies, with Mendi Constructions being one of its divisions.