Western Australia’s freight and construction sectors are getting a major boost, with Fremantle Ports officially launching a $91.2 million clinker import circuit at the Kwinana Bulk Terminal.
The new system allows faster and more reliable unloading of product, helping cement supply chains run smoothly across housing and infrastructure projects.
With direct conveyor transfer from the ship to Cockburn Cement, the circuit eliminates bottlenecks and reduces handling, cutting congestion at the port.
Clinker, the essential ingredient in cement, underpins much of WA’s construction economy, from roads and bridges to industrial precincts.
The upgraded circuit features a large dome structure capable of storing 40,000 tonnes of clinker, four times the previous capacity, marking the largest capital investment for Fremantle Ports since the Inner Harbour dredging project more than a decade ago.
“As a local, I’m proud to see Kwinana become home to Western Australia’s sole clinker import circuit,” Premier and Kwinana MLA Roger Cook says.
“This cutting-edge facility is an example of how my government is strengthening our State’s nation-leading economy and supporting future growth opportunities,” Cook says.
Ports Minister Stephen Dawson says the new infrastructure will help meet rising construction demand across the State.
“As our population and economy grow, we experience growing demand for cement to build new houses and major infrastructure throughout the State,” Dawson says.
“Clinker is the key ingredient to making cement, which is crucial in helping us deliver these projects. With the commissioning of this new clinker import circuit, the Cook Government is honouring our commitment to invest in the foundations that will deliver industry and jobs to our communities now and into the future,” he says.
Fremantle Ports Chief Executive Officer Jodie Ransom says the new facility brings tangible operational gains.
“With our new system, we will improve our operational efficiency and dust suppression, enabling faster, uninterrupted unloading of product and, in doing so, reducing port or berth congestion,” Ransom says.
“The combination of a first-of-a-kind install and the high-risk work required to build the dome makes the project noteworthy and exceptional, and a credit to all involved.
“The success of this project leads us forward with confidence as we look to the transformation of Fremantle Ports in the years ahead,” she says.
With over a million tonnes of clinker imported last year, mainly from Indonesia, the new circuit is set to keep WA’s construction and freight industries supplied, efficient and ready for expansion.