New port HQ

PORT Kembla Port Corporation is looking to the future with the announcement of a new $4.5 million purpose built headquarters in Port Kembla.

The new headquarters will feature an observation deck allowing the community a unique opportunity to view the $140 million port expansion currently underway.

According to Port Kembla Port Corporation board members it may also include a caf?.

Ports Minister Joe Tripodi was on hand last week as the announcement was made.

This new state of the art building will reflect the innovation taking place at the port of Pork Kembla, he said.

It means the Port Kembla Port Corporation will be more streamlined and efficient because staff spread over several offices will be finally able to work together in the one building, he said.

Mr Tripodi said it makes sense for NSW Maritime to move from the heart of Wollongong to a maritime precinct.

Its logical for maritime related organisations to be based on this port land, he said.

Port Kembla Port Corporation Chief Executive Officer Dom Figliomeni said the relocation from the corner of Military and Darcy roads would be a boost for shipping companies and other port users, as well as port corporation staff.

The new headquarters will provide direct line of sight to all port activity resulting in timely and accurate port information to shipping companies, Mr Figliomeni said.

He said it would enhance the operational efficiency of the port corporation.

We expect cost savings in reducing three buildings to one.

The location of the new headquarters will aid security of the port with a view of the port available from the new site according to Mr Figliomeni.

He said the development would significantly improve the appearance of the outer harbour area.

It will build on work already done so far by the Pork Kembla Heritage Group which has been working hard to preserve and promote the area, and will be compatible with existing users.

Port Kembla Port Corporation board member Terry Rumble and Port Kembla Port Corporation chairman Nicholas Whitlam said they expect the new headquarters to be completed within two to three years.

Member for Wollongong Noreen Hay said the new building would become a symbol of the growth and development of the port of Port Kembla.

The relocation of the corporations headquarters reflects a new era for the port and shows its taking its future growth very seriously, she said.

She said the Illawarra is sure to benefit from the work created during the construction period.

This will show that we havent forgotten Port Kembla, she said.

Advertisements calling for tenders for the new building will appear shortly.