SIMEC and port operator Qube have, SIMEC says, demonstrated their long-term commitment to the Whyalla Port operations in South Australia with the installation of a second Mobile Harbour Crane (MHC), doubling the port’s handling capacity.

The state-of-the-art port handling equipment complements Qube’s existing crane, which was delivered in 2019. It can handle the import/export of a variety of commodities, mining consumables and project-based equipment, according to SIMEC.

The doubling of handling capacity will make Whyalla Port one of the most competitive ports in the region, according to SIMEC, further enhancing its appeal to “third parties seeking a capable and competitive operation through which to transport their materials”, it said.

The second MHC is expected to be operational within the next three months, with a reach of 54 m and capacity up to 144 t, making it capable of handling bulk, containerised and project cargo shipments.

SIMEC Mining Executive Managing Director, Matt Reed, said the new crane was testament to Whyalla as a strong industrial gateway for South Australia.

“Since opening the port to third-party operators, we have seen it become an integral part of supply chains across South Australia,” he said. “With the additional investment from Qube, we expect activity at the port to continue to grow even further.

“Qube have been a fantastic partner in the port, supporting our existing steel and port operations while helping us realise the potential of this state-significant asset. Their team have been extremely professional, delivering high levels of safety and environmental performance.”

According to Qube Bulk Director, Todd Emmert, Qube sees Whyalla as the most logical port to service South Australia’s mining industry.

“With two mobile harbour cranes, this port rivals the service levels that that are currently available in Adelaide,” Emmert said. “Economic port operations, combined with the very significant cost savings that can be achieved by reducing the distance required to rail or haul products, makes Whyalla a local choice for miners who want to build and deliver robust and economic supply chains.”

Back in June, OZ Minerals became the first company to sign a long-term port services contract with SIMEC Mining’s Whyalla Port, with the miner looking to use the facility to ship copper concentrate from its Carrapateena mine.