Mourilyan Port backs jobs angle
ELISABETH CHAMPION THE Cassowary Coast could become an export hub, creating 50 new jobs, thanks to bold developments planned at Mourilyan Port.
A shipment of iron ore from Tablelands Mining Group set sail from the Port of Mourilyan this week.
The owner of the Mt Ruby mine near Ravenshoe has in recent days shipped 21,000 tonnes of magnetite from its purpose-built stockpile facility at the port to China, following an initial shipment of 25,000 tonnes in April this year.
Ports North communications adviser Andree Stephens said the authority had chosen the Port of Mourilyan for development as a bulk cargo port servicing the Far North Queensland region.
“The port has been used for sugar and molasses exports for many years but has recently accommodated log and woodchip export operations,” she said.
“The construction of a purpose-built mineral stockpile at the port in 2014 further expanded the port’s capability, with magnetite export operations now established by Tablelands Mining Group.
“Four hectares of land immediately adjacent to this stockpile could be developed to accommodate other bulk commodities from the Cassowary Coast region and its hinterland, including mineral sands, rare earths and log products.
“Ports North is also actively pursuing live cattle exports through the port.”
Tom Kennedy of Elders Rural said the viability of live cattle export through the port was under consideration. workers,” he said.
The export potential of the region could also give the region a serious cash injection.
“The Tablelands Mining Group magnetite mining and export operation has the potential to add up to $21 million per year to the local economy,” Ms Stephens said.
“It could also around 50 people.
“Development of further trade through the Port of Mourilyan continues to be a major focus for Ports North.
“This will strengthen the local economy and provide new opportunities for businesses in the region.”
Ports North chairman Russell Beer said the operation was developing and growing. employ