KING ISLAND

• AUKNS
• Latitude: -40.0681
• Longitude: 144.06
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

King Island Marine Port Overview

King Island, located in the Bass Strait between mainland Australia and Tasmania, is home to a port that plays a pivotal role in its connectivity and economic activities. The port serves as a critical gateway for the import and export of goods, including the famous King Island beef, dairy products, seafood, and minerals. The port facilities cater to various types of vessels, including cargo ships, fishing boats, and occasionally passenger ferries.

Key Specifications and Features

1. Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 39°52' S latitude and 143°52' E longitude.
   • Accessibility: Well-positioned for maritime routes between mainland Australia and Tasmania.

2. Port Facilities:

   • Wharves and Jetties: The island has multiple wharves to accommodate different types of vessels. The main wharf can handle general cargo vessels.
   • Cargo Handling: Equipped with cranes and handling equipment for loading and unloading goods efficiently. Basic facilities are available for containerized, bulk, and breakbulk cargo.
   • Storage: Warehousing facilities and open storage areas are available for temporary storage of goods.
   • Fuel Bunker: Fuel bunkering services are available for vessels needing refueling.

3. Navigation Aids:

   • Modern navigation systems help guide ships safely to the port, including radar, GPS, and lighthouse systems.

4. Depth Restrictions:

   • The draft at the port is sufficient to accommodate small to medium-sized vessels. Larger vessels might face restrictions due to draft limitations and may require specific tidal conditions for safe entry.

5. Support Services:

   • Pilotage: Pilotage services are available and often recommended due to the challenging waters of Bass Strait.
   • Tug Assistance: Tugboats provide assistance for maneuvering and docking.
   • Repair and Maintenance: Basic repair services are available, including emergency repairs and maintenance facilities.

6. Customs and Border Protection:

   • The port is equipped with customs and quarantine services to handle the import and export of goods, ensuring compliance with Australian regulations.

7. Environmental Considerations:

   • Environmental safeguards are in place to protect the pristine marine and coastal ecosystems surrounding the island. Measures include spill response protocols and waste management systems.

8. Economic Role:

   • The port supports the island's economy, which is heavily reliant on agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Efficient port operations ensure that local products reach broader markets and supplies are brought in for residents and industries.

9. Connectivity:

   • In addition to maritime connections, the port is integrated with local road networks to facilitate the transport of goods to and from the island's interior.

10. Future Developments:

    • Ongoing assessments and potential development plans aim to enhance the port's capacity and infrastructure to support increasing economic activities and larger vessel accommodation.

Conclusion

King Island's port is a crucial hub for the island's economic activities, providing essential maritime connections for the import and export of goods. While it offers all necessary facilities and services for efficient operations, there are ongoing initiatives to further improve its capacity and infrastructure, ensuring sustainable growth and continued economic support for the island's community.