MORE than 207,000 head of cattle have been exported from the Port of Townsville to Asian markets so far this financial year – already smashing last year’s record by 6,000.
Port of Townsville General Manager for Trade and Property Claudia Brumme-Smith said that extra permits from Indonesia, which account for about 60 per cent of Townsville’s export market, as well as faster loading times at the port had led to the record shipments.
“The upgrade to Wharf 10 means that the port has been able to vastly improve its cargo capacity,” she said.
“This, combined with easier road train access via the Townsville port access road for trucking movements, has provided a competitive advantage for Townsville and producers.
“With several more livestock vessels due in Townsville prior to June 30, we expect live cattle export numbers could climb as high as 260,000.
“Expanding our cattle export market into China is a priority for our business and recent trade visits to that country have led to very positive discussions.”
The previous export record for live cattle from Port of Townsville was 201,810 set in 2013-2014.