GEELONG

• AUGEX
• Latitude: -38.1131
• Longitude: 144.371
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Geelong Port, located in Victoria, Australia, is one of the principal commercial ports in the region and serves as a critical gateway for trade. Here’s a detailed description along with its specifications:

General Overview

Geelong Port is situated on the western shore of Corio Bay, part of Port Phillip Bay. It is approximately 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, making it a strategic location for both domestic and international shipping activities.

Facilities and Infrastructure

• Berths:

  • The port consists of multiple berths that cater to a range of cargoes, including dry bulk, liquid bulk, and general cargo.
  • Notable berths include the Lascelles Wharf, Corio Quay North and South, and Grain Pier, among others.

• Storage Facilities:

  • The port has extensive storage facilities including warehousing, bulk storage, and open storage areas.
  • Dedicated grain storage facilities cater to the large volumes of grain exported through the port.

• Equipment and Handling:

  • Modern cargo handling equipment including cranes, conveyor belts, and forklifts ensures efficient loading and unloading operations.
  • Specialized facilities for handling liquid bulk such as petroleum and chemicals.

Cargo Types

• Dry Bulk: Including grain, alumina, cement, and mineral sands.
• Liquid Bulk: Including petroleum products and other chemicals.
• General Cargo: Including timber, steel, machinery, and project cargo.

Technical Specifications

• Channel Depth: The main shipping channels have a depth of around 12 meters, which allows for the accommodation of vessels with significant draft.
• Berth Depths: Vary by location, typically range between 10 to 12 meters.
• Vessel Accommodation: Capable of handling Panamax size vessels.

Port Services

• Pilotage: Mandatory for all vessels over 35 meters in length, provided by experienced marine pilots.
• Towing and Mooring: Available services include tug assistance for berthing and unberthing operations.
• Security: Compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code ensures high standards of security.

Economic and Strategic Importance

• The port is crucial for the export of agricultural and manufactured goods from Victoria.
• Acts as a significant import hub for raw materials and fuels needed for regional industries.
• Contributes significantly to the economic development of the Geelong region and Victoria more broadly.

Environmental and Safety Measures

• The port operates under stringent environmental guidelines to minimize impact on the surrounding marine and terrestrial environments.
• Safety protocols are in place to ensure the well-being of port workers and the safe operation of maritime activities.

Connectivity

• Road: Well-connected via major highways facilitating efficient cargo transport to and from the port.
• Rail: Linked by a rail network that supports bulk cargo movement especially for commodities like grain.
• Air: Proximity to Melbourne's major airports enhances logistical capabilities.

In summary, Geelong Port is a vital maritime gateway with advanced infrastructure and facilities catering to a diverse range of cargoes. It plays an essential role in Australia's trade and logistic operations, contributing to the local and national economy.