PORT WALCOTT
- Latitude: -20.6045 •
- Longitude: 117.188 •
- West Australia •
- Port in Australia
Address: Australia
Port Walcott is a significant maritime facility located on the northwest coast of Australia, in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. It primarily serves as an export hub for the region's rich mineral resources, particularly iron ore.
Location
- Geographical Coordinates: Approximately 20° 37' S, 117° 11' E.
- Nearest Town: Near Wickham, roughly 1,500 kilometers north of Perth.
Operator
- Primary Operator: Pilbara Iron, a conglomerate handling mining and port operations, which is part of Rio Tinto.
Facilities and Infrastructure
- Berths: Port Walcott features multiple berths equipped to handle large bulk carriers, primarily dedicated to iron ore exports.
- Loading Systems: The port is equipped with state-of-the-art conveyor belt systems, ship loaders, and stockpile facilities ensuring efficient loading operations.
- Turnaround: The port is designed for quick turnaround of vessels, enhancing logistical efficiency.
Depth and Size
- Channel Depth: The port can accommodate vessels with deep drafts, often in the range of 18-20 meters, subject to tidal conditions and specific berth capabilities.
- Vessel Size: The port handles Capesize bulk carriers, which are among the largest dry cargo vessels, typically over 200,000 deadweight tons (DWT).
Cargo
- Primary Commodity: The predominant export commodity handled at Port Walcott is iron ore, which is sourced from the extensive mining operations in the Pilbara region.
- Storage: Extensive yard and stockpile areas for pre-shipment storage.
Ancillary Services
- Marine Services: Tug services, pilotage, and mooring services are available to assist with vessel movements.
- Road and Rail: The port is well-connected to the nearby mining sites through a network of roads and a dedicated rail system ensuring efficient transportation of minerals to the port.
Environmental and Safety Standards
- Regulations: The port operates under stringent safety protocols and environmental guidelines to minimize its impact on the surrounding coastal and marine environments.
- Initiatives: Efforts include dust suppression techniques, pollutant monitoring, and adherence to international maritime safety standards.
Economic Impact
- Employment: Port Walcott supports significant employment both directly in port operations and indirectly through ancillary industries and services.
- Revenue: It is a critical asset for Australia’s mining export economy, generating substantial economic revenue through global trade.
Future Developments
- Expansion Plans: There may be plans for expanding existing facilities or adding new ones to increase capacity in line with growing export demands.
Contact Information
- Port Authority/Operator: Specific contact details for Rio Tinto or Pilbara Iron can be obtained for operational inquiries and logistics coordination.
In summary, Port Walcott plays a crucial role in the export of iron ore from the Pilbara region, supported by advanced port infrastructure, efficient logistical operations, and a focus on safety and environmental stewardship.