MID West Ports Authority handled its highest annual throughput since 2016-17, recording 16.4 million tonnes of trade in 2021-22.
For the third year in a row, MWPA saw a decrease in iron ore as a percentage of trade through the port, reducing the port authority’s reliance on one commodity and building what it calls long-term resilience.
Growth in financial performance was also realised with a total revenue of $96.7 million, up from $75.84 million in 2020-21 (28% growth). Similarly, profit before tax grew with a return of $35.60 million, up from $23.32 million in 2020-21 (53% growth).
MWPA has also seen the completion of two critical projects in the last twelve months: Wharf 4 refurbishment and maintenance dredging.
The Port Maximisation Plan Project (PMaxP) will see improvements to safety, reliability and efficiency enabling MWPA to facilitate increased throughput of around 25 million tonnes per annum by 2028.
Mr Tully said “MWPA performed strongly in 2021-22 with good results operationally, financially and in the delivery of projects. 2021/22 was also a critical year for MWPA in securing infrastructure funding to enable the development of the port through the Port Maximisation Project (PMaxP) which is now underway.”
MWPA continued its involvement in the local community of Geraldton and the Mid West region, awarding more than $100,000 in its annual Community Grant Program, introducing the MWPA Not-For-Profit (NFP) Partnership Program; awarded to the Geraldton Surf Lifesaving Club, and sponsoring $100,000 for the second year running to Shore Leave, the Mid West’s premier festival.
