NQBP ports prepared for Tropical Cyclone Debbie

NORTH Queensland Bulk Ports said today the ports of Abbot Point, Mackay and Hay Point have been locked down in preparation for Tropical Cyclone Debbie.

NQBP Chief Executive Officer Steve Lewis said safety is the top priority for the corporation and its port partners.

“Like everyone in the region, NQBP is bracing for the impact of the severe weather associated with TropicalCyclone Debbie,” Mr Lewis said.

“Given the location of NQBP’s ports in northern Australia, we have comprehensive and well-tested cyclone preparedness plans in place.

“Our cyclone readiness plans have been put into action over recent days, in partnership with our tenants and customers.

“NQBP is also working hand in hand with emergency services, the Queensland Government and Maritime Safety Queensland.

“Across our ports, critical assets and infrastructure such as tugs, wharfs and stockpile equipment have been tied down and secured.

“As always, our top priority is the safety of our employees and the community.”

The ports of Mackay, Hay Point and Abbot Point were closed on 26 March 2017, under direction from the Regional Harbour Master.

The ports will remain closed until further notice, and will only re-open when it is safe to do so.

Mr Lewis said the Port of Mackay’s Southern Breakwater has also been closed to traffic and pedestrians.

“With the high winds, waves and storm surges associated with cyclones, the Southern Breakwater at the Port of Mackay is strictly off limits,” Mr Lewis said.

“Unfortunately, we are still seeing some people trying to access the Southern Breakwater. This is simply not in the interests of people’s own safety, or that of our emergency service personnel.”

Mr Lewis said NQBP’s Port of Mackay employees have been sent home today. Tenants at the Port of Mackay have also left the port precinct, with port security measures in place.

NQBP will work with port users and emergency services to ensure safe port operations can resume as soon as possible.

Further updates will be provided through the NQBP social media channels as it becomes available.

However please note further updates are not expected until after the cyclone has made landfall.

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation contact:
Fiona Cunningham | Senior Advisor Corporate Communications
07 3011 7915 | 0426 249 577 | fcunningham@nqbp.com.au