Port Hedland has retained its title as the world’s largest bulk export port after recording a record-breaking year in which $40 billion in exports was handled by the facility.

 

Figures released for the 2010/11 financial year depict a total throughput of 199.002 million tonnes - eclipsing last year’s record tonnage by more than 20 million tonnes.

 

Other records set included the largest iron ore shipment to leave Port Hedland with 247,858 tonnes on the vessel Cape Infinity (the long standing record of 234,544 tonnes held by the Hyundai Giant for over 20 years was broken twice this year) and largest cargo shipped on a single tide with a total of 914,881 tonnes aboard five ships.

 

Port Headland Port Authority (PHPA) acting chief executive Lindsay Copeman welcomed the results. “The recent shipping figures are a testimony to the significant growth the Port is experiencing and which is forecast to continue in Port Hedland,” Mr Copeman said.

 

“The Port Hedland Port Authority will further progress its work with all proponents and port users, including major and junior miners, to enable future growth and greater throughput.”

 

“With current and forecast development, the authority is committed to forging new avenues for trade in the Pilbara for the benefit of the state and national economies as it surges towards achieving throughput of over 400 million tonnes per annum in coming years.”

 

“In line with this growth, the authority will continue to grow its own team to meet the needs of the port while maintaining a strong safety and environment record.”

 

Mr Copeman added the port was also pleased with the progress of the Utah Berth, which has recorded a total throughput of 6.2 million tonnes since commissioning in September 2010. The largest shipment to leave the berth was set earlier this month, with the MV Duhallow shipping a combined total of 114,546 tonnes of manganese and chromite.