Port of Melbourne handled its first critical minerals shipment through the upgraded Appleton Dock on 28 September, opening a new rail-to-ship export route as part of a wider infrastructure investment programme exceeding $2.5 billion.
The port says it has invested more than $1 billion in infrastructure since 2016, with a further $1.5 billion planned by 2030 to increase capacity and support Victoria’s growing freight task.
Developed with Qube, Australian Amalgamated Terminals and the Victorian Government, the Appleton Dock upgrades are transforming the facility from a general cargo operation into a multimodal terminal capable of handling dry bulk commodities.
Critical minerals are transported by rail from Qube’s Ultima Intermodal Terminal to Melbourne, where the material is transferred from train to vessel for onward shipment. The first cargo departed the port following upgrades to wharf infrastructure, rail interfaces and bulk handling systems.
“Upgrades at Appleton Dock are enabling more efficient transport of critical minerals by rail, unlocking new export capacity while improving supply chain performance,” said Saul Cannon, Chief Executive Officer of Port of Melbourne.
Qube is supporting the pit-to-port logistics chain using its heavy haulage and rail capabilities, proprietary Rotabox technology and specialist trailer equipment.
“Our freight and logistics solution leverages our heavy haulage and rail infrastructure experience and expertise, together with our proprietary Rotabox technology and specialist trailer equipment, to deliver critical minerals from pit to port,”said Todd Emmert, Director of Qube Bulk.
The port investment complements rail infrastructure improvements across Victoria and is intended to provide a more integrated connection between inland mineral production, rail transport, bulk handling and maritime exports.
