The $250 million expansion of DP World's container handling facilities in Brisbane has entered its next phase, with the first on-site delivery of equipment this week.
DP World Brisbane general manager Mark Hulme said: "This major project is focused on the growing needs of DP World's customers as Brisbane's mode will change from an outdated forklift and truck operation into the latest automated stacking crane (ASC) operations and semi-automated waterside operations.
"We have reached an important milestone this week with the first three manual straddle carriers (MSCs) arriving on site. Having been assembled within the port precinct in the last month, the new equipment will undergo final testing on site before handover.
"In total, DP World will be acquiring 14 Kalmar MSC to operate at the new semi-automated Brisbane terminal. These new manned straddle carriers are due to be in full operation by the end of 2013."
Construction on site started in June 2012 and as at April 2013, works have included:
Extensively upgrading the terminal's power supply and reliability with new transformers and substations. New access roundabout. Formation of new ASC crane rail beams. New reefer towers. Updated IT facilities. Over 180 people are employed on site each day as construction enters its next phase.
14 new automatic stacking cranes are currently being manufactured by Kalmar and are due to be delivered for erection from July 2013.
"A major challenge for the project is ensuring that during the construction phase that we maintain our waterside and landside performance in Brisbane," Mr Hulme said.
"DP World has invested significant time in careful planning of the construction phases to ensure our customers are unaffected by the development and our operations continue to run smoothly."
The first stage of development will take capacity to approximately 850,000 TEU and is due to be completed by the end of 2013. Further expansion is planned to keep pace with demand.
