Livestock loading operations investigated

A delegation from the Pilbara Ports Authority visited the Port of Darwin last month to investigate livestock export loading operations.

The visit follows on from the Livestock Export Forum held by PPA in Port Hedland last December, to explore market appetite and requirements with pastoralists, growers, exporters and key agencies about livestock exports from the Pilbara.

PPA Development and Trade general manager Lyle Banks said the visit provided practical and resourceful concepts for the Port Hedland facility.

“The PPA contingent was able to observe the use of a dual loading ramp, which allows livestock to be efficiently unloaded from the top and bottom of a truck directly onto a vessel,” he said.

“Port of Darwin staff provided an overview of the various health and safety factors that will need to be considered by PPA in recommencing live exports out of Port Hedland.

“Holding yards were also inspected, which highlighted the transport and logistics requirements.

“As a result of our visit to the Port of Darwin, we are reviewing current infrastructure at Port Hedland and will soon consult with industry to ensure proposed upgrades to equipment at the port will meet industry requirements.”

During the 2015 Livestock forum, which was attended by almost 50 industry representatives, some Pilbara pastoralists expressed concerns over the viability and capabilities of the Hedland facility, which had previously casued delays.

Mr Banks told delegates the authority was keen to engage in ongoing open and transparent discussions with industry on the future of live exports from Port Hedland.

PPA also spoke of their commitment to spend $200,000 to install extra infrastructure to make unloading cattle easier.