$15 million investment in new ship loader to boost Bell Bay's forestry exports

Posted 25 November 2024

A new ship loader at the Port of Bell Bay is set to enhance Tasmania’s forestry export capabilities and strengthen the State’s economic infrastructure.

22 November 2024

Kerry Vincent, Minister for Infrastructure.

A $15 million investment in the new ship loader has been announced by the Tasmanian Liberal Government as it delivers the 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future.

Minister for Infrastructure, Kerry Vincent, said the investment highlights our commitment to supporting Tasmania’s vital forestry sector and ensuring the Port of Bell Bay remains a key hub for exports.

“We’re getting things done and building bigger and better infrastructure to secure Tasmania’s forestry export future,” Minister Vincent said.

“TasPorts’ new ship loader will replace equipment that has served us well since 1992, delivering advanced automation, increased capacity, and improved biosecurity
measures.

“This investment by TasPorts responds directly to the needs of the industry. It will ensure faster, more efficient loading of larger vessels now regularly visiting Bell Bay and provide benefits such as enhanced safety features, energy efficiencies, and cyber security advancements.”

The project also includes the installation of an automatic chip sampler, which will replace the current manual sampling process, enabling faster and more accurate
analysis of wood chips.

“The ability to seamlessly sample and fumigate wood chips during the loading process will save time and improve product quality, delivering significant benefits for Tasmanian businesses and exporters,” Minister Vincent said.

TasPorts’ project will improve access for a variety of cargo, as well as strengthening the infrastructure underpinning Tasmania’s $1.2 billion forestry sector, which supports 3,000 jobs across the state.

TasPorts will seek tenders for the project in the new year, with contracts to be awarded in August 2025.

“This investment reflects our Government’s commitment to securing the future of the forestry industry and ensuring the Port of Bell Bay remains a vital hub for exports and economic growth,” Minister Vincent said.

The upgrades will provide greater reliability and position Bell Bay for future growth as global demand for Tasmanian forest products continues to rise.