Port of Mackay pushes past two million tonnes
Rising grain exports and continued strong trade in petroleum and sugar have helped push the Port of Mackay past a two million tonne milestone.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation (NQBP) CEO Brendan Webb said between July 2024 and January 2025, the government-owned port facilitated 2.2 million tonnes of trade.
“The top three traded commodities - petroleum (1.1 million tonnes), sugar (607,000 tonnes), and grain (245,000 tonnes) - have once again led the way to another trade milestone,” Mr Webb said.
“Grain in particular has had a positive seven months with a notable increase of 9.7% from 223,000 tonnes during the same period last year.”
The port’s strong trade performance highlights its vital role in Queensland’s global supply chain.
"Our local port boasts global connections to key international markets, including China, India, Japan, North America, New Zealand, Korea, and Bangladesh," Mr Webb said.
'With its strategic location, multi-cargo capability, and well-established regional links, it plays a crucial role in connecting Queensland to the world.'"
For more than 85 years, the Port of Mackay has been a driving force behind the region’s economic growth.
"Since opening in 1939, it has grown into Queensland’s fourth-largest multi-commodity port and is central to unlocking the agricultural and mining wealth of the region," Mr Webb said.
“Fuel trucks depart the port 24/7 to support the Bowen Basin, a supply lifeline that underpins the mining industry’s operations.
“Meanwhile, Mackay remains one of Australia’s largest sugar-producing region, and the port hosts one of the world’s largest bulk sugar terminals.”
The Port of Mackay is one of four ports NQBP is responsible for, including the ports of Abbot Point, Hay Point, and Weipa.
“Our ports are powerful contributors to the Queensland economy with 54% of Queensland’s international trade by volume passing through them,” Mr Webb said.
“The consistently strong results in throughput are a testament to the dedication and hard work of our people and port partners who keep trade flowing safely and efficiently.
“Together we are advancing our shared vision of being recognised as a leader in responsible port trade, where Queenslanders thrive for generations.”
For further information on tonnage volumes for the Port of Mackay, visit NQBP’s Throughputs page.
Images for download
Image 1: Aerial view of the Port of Mackay.
Image 2: Grain is in the top three traded commodities at the Port of Mackay.
Image 3: Grain getting loaded onto a ship berthed at Port of Mackay's Wharf 5.
North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation contact:
Amanda Blines | Senior Advisor Brand and Communications
0439 703 330 | ablines@nqbp.com.au
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