The largest fuel tanker to enter the Port of Newcastle in 220 years of commercial operations arrived this morning. The 244-metre Pro Alliance long range 2 (LR2) class tanker berthed at 1100 hours at Stolthaven Newcastle’s Mayfield 7 dedicated bulk liquids terminal, a purpose-built facility catering to vessels of this size.
The milestone follows the arrival of the port’s first long range 1 (LR1) tanker in early January.
Stolthaven Australia's Director, Gordon Lasker said the company had made significant investment in its fuel terminal facility that would benefit its customers and enable greater efficiencies in the bulk liquids supply chain from Newcastle.
“The arrival of our first LR2 tanker is the realisation of a long-term investment in the dedicated bulk liquids precinct at Mayfield 7 berth. We are grateful for the proactive approach by Port of Newcastle to support not only our current business but also our future expansion plans," Mr Lasker said.
Port of Newcastle Executive Manager, Marine and Operations, Keith Wilks added: “The Pro Alliance’s arrival was a significant milestone in the port’s history, delivering supply chain flexibility and efficiencies for the oil industry through enhanced channel capacity.”
Stolthaven Australia has been operating a dedicated bulk liquids precinct at Port of Newcastle since December 2013. The facility is one of the most advanced in Australia with a berthing capability of LR2 245m LOA (length overall). A further 10 hectares is currently under development and will deliver an expected capacity build of 450,000 cubic meters of bulk fuels and chemicals storage.
