PORT BONYTHON
- Latitude: -33.005 •
- Longitude: 137.761 •
- East Australia •
- Port in Australia
Address: Upper Spencer Gulf South Australia Australia
Port Bonython is a significant marine port located in South Australia. It is primarily known for its export facilities, particularly for crude oil and liquefied hydrocarbons. Here is an overview of its description and specifications:
Location
- Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 32°28' S latitude and 137°48' E longitude.
- Proximity: Situated near Point Lowly in the upper Spencer Gulf, about 20 kilometers northeast of Whyalla.
Port Services and Facilities
- Jetty: The port features a deep-water jetty extending about 2.4 kilometers from the shore, allowing access for large vessels.
- Berthing: The jetty has berthing facilities capable of accommodating tankers with a deadweight capacity of up to 110,000 tons.
- Mooring: Equipped with mooring dolphins and adequate infrastructure for secure and safe mooring.
Commodities and Operations
- Primary Exports: Focuses on the export of petroleum products, mainly crude oil, condensate, and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas).
- Terminals: It includes multiple storage tanks and pipelines for efficient loading and unloading operations.
Depth and Navigation
- Approach Channel: Deepwater channel with sufficient depth to accommodate large oil tankers.
- Depth: The port maintains adequate draft levels to allow entry and docking of large vessels. The depth ranges typically between 19 to 21 meters (62 to 69 feet).
Environmental and Safety Considerations
- Safety Measures: Stringent safety and environmental protocols are in place to handle hydrocarbons and reduce the risk of spills.
- Marine Protection: Efforts are made to protect the surrounding marine environment, given the port's proximity to sensitive ecological areas in Spencer Gulf.
Connectivity
- Road Access: Connected to major road networks, facilitating the transportation of goods to and from the port.
- Proximity to Industrial Hubs: Its nearness to Whyalla and other industrial areas in South Australia supports its role in regional commerce and industry.
Operational Management
- Management: Operated and managed by various entities depending on the scope, including government and private stakeholders.
Future Prospects
- Expansion Plans: There are considerations for upgrading and expanding facilities to increase capacity and accommodate diversified cargo types in the future.
Port Bonython plays a critical role in Australia's export infrastructure, especially for energy resources. Its strategic location and well-developed facilities make it a key asset for the regional economy and global markets.