An end of year snapshot at Gladstone Ports Corporation (GPC) has revealed record-breaking liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, which the GPC says is thanks to its strong relationships with customers and successful maritime operations.

In the 2020-21 financial year, more than 23 million tonnes of LNG left three Gladstone LNG terminals on Curtis Island, which is home to GLNG, APLNG and QCLNG. This was a 3.72 per cent increase from the year prior.

Chief Operating Officer of GPC, Craig Walker, acknowledged the work of the above companies and their staff who have managed through a very challenging year.

He also acknowledged the dedicated GPC employees who are the backbone of their business and GPC’s strong relationships with customers who work safely, efficiently and sustainably to facilitate trade in their ports.

“Shipping and ports hold the world economy together. They connect countries, markets, businesses and people, on a scale not otherwise possible.”

Mr Walker said the LNG record was also a result of successful maritime functions.

During the financial year, GPC’s internationally accredited pilotage service completed 4,678 pilotage shipping movements. The Port of Gladstone also recorded more than 9,100 towage movements.

“Our Manager for Trade Strategy and Port Operations, Line Corfixen oversees our pilots, licensed towage operation and our port centres and is an example, not only of GPC’s diversified focus but of professional women making a difference,” Mr Walker said.

“Line is an active voice and supporter of careers in the maritime industry and the diversity of options available to our next generation of job seekers.”

GPC facilitated 350 LNG vessel movements, ported 1,909 ships and exported and imported 123 million tonnes through its three ports in Rockhampton, Gladstone and Bundaberg to the end of June 2021.

Member for Gladstone and Minister for Regional Development and Manufacturing and Minister for Water Glenn Butcher said the next challenge is the development and expansion of a fully integrated, export-scale hydrogen supply chain.

“To get there we’re focused on jobs now in exploration, jobs during construction, jobs during export operations, and jobs right through the manufacturing supply chain.”