Container stevedore DP World says its Melbourne terminal is the first to deliver a true on-dock rail service, with direct rail access to be available to customers from July.
A major source of the state’s exports, Victoria’s Wimmera region will have direct rail access to DP World’s West Swanson Dock thanks to the new rail access.
DP World and SCT Logistics are working together to provide exporters from the western Victorian region with the on-dock rail service.
A spokesperson for the stevedore told Rail Express sister publication Lloyd’s List Australia the company was excited about the new partnership.
However, the company was unable to provide comment on the number and frequency of services at this early stage.
DP World Australia managing director and chief executive Paul Scurrah said the service will be the “only true on-dock rail service” at the port of Melbourne.
“The arrangement demonstrates DPWA’s commitment to reducing supply chain costs for regional exporters by creating a clear path to our terminal,” he said.
“The impact to our local community is also significant as around 20,000 trucks per year will be taken off the road in surrounding communities.”
SCT Group managing director Geoff Smith said the project fit his company’s business goals, of improving outcomes for customers by improving the supply chain.
“This partnership with DPWA ticks both of those boxes and provides a platform for future strategic opportunities together,” he said.
SCT Logistics was established in 1974 and is Australia’s largest private rail freight operator.
It is managed by its founder Peter Smith along with sons Geoff and Glen.