THE PORT of Townsville’s Quayside Terminal is undergoing an upgrade worth almost $6 million ahead of the upcoming cruise season, according to an announcement made yesterday (6 August) from the Port of Townsville.
Townsville’s only dedicated cruise terminal is preparing to see thousands of passengers and crew over the upcoming 2024-25 cruise season, which is expected to contribute almost $10 million into the local economy.
The upgraded will enable Large Class cruise vessels to access Quayside for the first time.
Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby commented; “The $251 million Channel Upgrade project, which has widened the shipping channel from 90m to 180m at the inshore end is nearing completion, which will allow vessels up to 300 metres long to access the Port, instead of by-passing Townsville.
“These ships can carry upwards of 3000 passengers, almost triple the number on any one ship that we’ve usually accommodated to date.”
Contractor McMahon Services is delivering the package which the Port of Townsville says is providing employment opportunities for local workers and suppliers throughout the construction phase.
McMahon Services is expanding the bus zone to accommodate 12 coaches, rejuvenate the taxi rank and passenger drop off areas, and modify the Breezeway to include shade structures, seating and landscaping.
McMahon Services general manager Queensland Chris Bassa said their business has been part of the local market in Townsville for the last 10 years, and was committed to supporting the economic growth of the region.
Works commenced in early July this year, and are expected to be completed ahead of the arrival of Silver Muse in November, the first cruise ship for Townsville’s 2024/25 season.
As part of the Port’s commitment to sustainability, Ms Crosby said an additional $3 million has been injected into renewable energy projects at the Terminal, including the installation of 430 solar panels and 60 battery banks on the roof at Quayside Terminal.
These resources are expected to generate enough power yearly to equate to 10% of the port’s annual electricity consumption.
