Charles Masters, Secretary of Shipping Australia’s Victoria Committee, writes of the events of 2024.
The following extract highlights some of the issues.
“The Victoria committee met throughout the year and covered a wide range of issues. The year started with the consequences of a prolonged dispute, which began 4Q 2023, between DP World and the Maritime Union. It appeared to be supported by the relevant State Minister who failed to apply a voluntary code of practice to manage significant disruptions.
“Congestion at the roro terminals was problematic with quarantine inspections hindering the clearance of vehicles. As the year unfolded, frustration played out with the local transport operators’ inability to handle the demand. Two operators exist in the sector, publicly listed QUBE and Wallenius Wilhelmsen operated MIRRAT. QUBE meantime have made a $300m takeover bid for MIRRAT subject to ACCC approval.”
Mr Masters also talks of electric vehicles, maritime safety, the term of the Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas, container weights and more.
