Brisbane’s port facilities named most efficient
Posted by editor (editor) on Apr 24 2009
2009 >>

Brisbane has been awarded the Dream World Cruise Destinations’ 2008 Award for ‘Most Efficient Port Facilities’ at the recent Cruise Shipping convention in Miami, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor announced today.

Mr Lawlor said the awards recognised destinations that had demonstrated the ability to adapt to the current challenges faced by the cruise shipping industry.

“The awards, coordinated by esteemed London-based cruise industry publication Dream World Cruise Destinations, recognised Brisbane’s port services as having the most efficient combination of pilotage, port agency services, customs clearance and good working relations with operations departments of cruise lines,” he said.

“Cruise shipping generates more than $151 million for the Queensland economy each year.

“The prestigious award is based on direct feedback from senior international cruise line executives.

“Brisbane’s port facilities and infrastructure was named as well placed to manage an increased number of cruise ship passengers which in turn will deliver further expenditure and create more job opportunities for Queenslanders.”

Mr Lawlor said under the Queensland Tourism Strategy (QTS), a $48 million, ten-year blueprint for the future of tourism, the Queensland Government had clearly identified cruise shipping as an important development market.

“The Queensland Cruise Ship Plan is a QTS initiative designed to provide a clear direction for cruise shipping in Brisbane and Queensland, ensuring sustainability of the industry now and into the future,” he said.

“Under this plan we aim to increase strategic partnerships to guarantee ongoing investment in cruise tourism infrastructure throughout Queensland.”

Brookfield Multiplex Project Director, Lee Butterworth, said with the support of the QTS initiative, Portside Wharf would continue to play a significant role in international cruise marketing and the subsequent port logistics.

“Already with a heavily booked schedule until December 2011, Portside Wharf is in great demand from a diverse range of international companies and the Queensland Cruise Ship Plan will play an integral role in catering for the increasing number of cruise ships to Brisbane and their passengers,” he said.

“The award for ‘Most Efficient Port Facilities’ highlights Portside Wharf’s superior operational efficiency.

“Major international cruise ship organisations are taking serious notice such as Carnival, which is planning to deploy the Pacific Dawn from Portside Wharf starting in December 2009 – a significant boost to Queensland’s tourism economy.”

Mr Lawlor said the Queensland Government wanted to provide a special experience for cruise tourists whatever they choose to do when they step ashore and that experience begins at the port.

Last changed: Oct 06 2009 at 2:16 PM