23/01/2008 Media Release Patrick breaks container record A record volume exceeding 250,000 TEU moved through Patrick’s container terminals in December 2007. “The record number of containers handled is 12% higher than the same period in 2006 and is a clear indication that our terminal’s performance is on par with the best of our international counterparts”, said Don Telford Chief Operating Officer, Asciano. Patrick’s terminals in Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Fremantle handle more than 50 per cent of Australia’s total container trade. “Our capacity to handle the growing volumes currently moving through our terminals is testament to our investment, our people and our ability to manage growth”, Mr Telford said. “The fact that this milestone has been achieved while infrastructure improvements and crane replacements has been taking place is a credit to the workforce and operational management”, Mr Telford said. Patrick has invested heavily in all its container terminals across the country and has delivered a number of new cranes and straddles in the past 12 months. 10 new straddles will become operational at East Swanson Dock in early 2008 to accompany the two new cranes that were placed into service earlier this year. 5 new rail mounted gantries currently being commissioned at Port Botany will become operational in February 2008 and will significantly improve the land side efficiency in and out of the terminal. As new equipment becomes operational, productivity at the terminals will improve further as will its overall capacity. Construction of our new B10 terminal at Fisherman Islands has commenced and is progressing well, and further expansion of the Autostrad® fleet is on order. "Planning for the next expansion phase of our terminals is well advanced and we will continue to increase our capacity to service Australia's port growth for decades to come”, Mr Telford said. Asciano is committed to ensuring it invests in capacity ahead of demand and continues to provide quality customer service across its operations. Ends Contact: Marie Festa 0405 494 705
AIO Price at posting:
0.0¢ Sentiment: Buy Disclosure: Held