Port of Newcastle's (PON) roll-on roll-off (ro-ro) journey reached a new milestone on Wednesday with the arrival of the largest ro-ro vessel to call at the Port, marking another step in its diversification into passenger vehicle and high and heavy trade growth.
The 265-metre-long vessel, berthed at West Basin 4, discharged a major shipment of rail wagons and large-scale mining equipment, further cementing PON's position as a future bespoke ro-ro terminal on Australia's east coast.
The arrival of the record-length ro-ro vessel underlines Port of Newcastle's capability in high and heavy cargo handling, positioning it firmly as a key trade enabler for the Hunter, northern NSW, and beyond.
Unlike the ro-ro arrivals earlier this year, which were primarily passenger vehicle carriers, this landmark shipment signals PON's strategic focus on supporting key industries, like agriculture and mining, by providing direct and competitive logistics options closer to production regions.
Port of Newcastle Executive Manager Business Development, Kate McArthur, said:
"Since we received first point of entry DAFF approval last year, and following the Hyundai and Kia cars discharged over the New Year period, we've been actively growing our ro-ro capability, targeting both passenger vehicles and the high and heavy segment.
"We're experiencing growth volumes and trade diversification not previously seen at the Port, with agricultural and mining equipment continuing to move through Newcastle in greater volume and frequency.
"The continued development of our ro-ro terminal is one of three key areas of strategic focus for the Port of Newcastle, alongside our Clean Energy Precinct and Multipurpose Terminal.
"Over the coming months, we'll be increasing our storage capability and ro-ro terminal investment in line with market demand. Our location provides key industries in NSW, including agriculture and mining, with a closer and more efficient pathway to global markets, making Newcastle a natural gateway for these critical sectors.
"Our expanded ro-ro capability introduces more competition and better options for the market, and we'll continue building our infrastructure and service offering to meet the needs of industry over the next few years," Ms McArthur said.