LUCINDA

• AULUC
• Latitude: -18.521
• Longitude: 146.361
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Port of Lucinda, Australia: Overview and Specifications

Location:

• Situated in Queensland, Australia, Lucinda is primarily known for its extensive sugar exporting operations. The terminal is located near the mouth of the Herbert River, about 100 km north of Townsville.

Key Features:

• Type of Port: Special-purpose terminal primarily for bulk sugar.
• Operational Entity: The Lucinda Bulk Sugar Terminal is operated by Queensland Sugar Limited (QSL).
• Wharf Facility: The port features a long jetty extending about 5.76 kilometers (3.58 miles) into the Coral Sea, allowing large vessels to berth.
• Depth: The berth depth can accommodate Panamax-sized vessels with drafts up to approx. 12.2 meters (40 feet).

Infrastructure:

• Storage: The terminal includes substantial storage for bulk sugar, with capacities around 250,000 tons in a single massive shed.
• Loading Facility: Equipped with modern conveyor systems to efficiently load sugar onto ships.
• Transport Links: The terminal is well-connected via road networks, with a rail line also linking to the broader Queensland rail system for sugar transport from the mill to the terminal.

Cargo Handling:

• Primary Cargo: Bulk raw sugar.
• Annual Throughput: Lucinda usually handles over a million tons of sugar annually, making it one of the major sugar export hubs in Australia.

Environmental Management:

• Sustainability Practices: The port adheres to strict environmental regulations to protect marine life and minimize ecological impact.
• Dredging Activities: Regular maintenance dredging ensures navigable depths at the berth.
• Emissions Controls: Efforts are made to reduce emissions during cargo handling and shipping operations.

Additional Facilities:

• Security: The port maintains high-security standards in compliance with ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code for safety and security.
• Services: Basic amenities and services for ship crews may be available, but the port is relatively specialized and might not have broad commercial facilities.

Proximity and Accessibility:

• Proximity to Townsville: The nearest major city, Townsville, provides additional facilities and support services for maritime operations.
• Access: The approach channels are well-marked and maintained, offering safe navigation for incoming vessels.

Implications for Shippers:

• Efficiency: Lucinda is considered a highly efficient port for sugar exports due to its specialized infrastructure.
• Seasonal Considerations: Peak shipping periods align with the sugar harvest season, typically from June to November.

The Port of Lucinda plays a crucial role in Australia's sugar industry, benefiting from its strategic location and high-capacity facilities designed explicitly for bulk sugar handling.