Darwin tour helps Hedland export push

After an almost 10-year lull in live export trade, the PPA initiated a forum in December to gauge industry interest in live cattle exports from Port Hedland.

PPA officials have toured Darwin port and its facilities, including the livestock loading operations.

The PPA contingent observed the use of a dual loading ramp, which allows livestock to be efficiently unloaded from the top and bottom of a truck directly onto a vessel.

PPA development and trade general manager Lyle Banks said the visit provided practical concepts for the facility.

"As a result of our visit to the Port of Darwin, we are reviewing current infrastructure at Port Hedland," he said.

"We will soon consult with industry to ensure proposed upgrades to equipment at the port will meet industry requirements."

The December livestock export forum explored the market appetite for live export and and the requirements of pastoralists, growers, exporters and key agencies for livestock exports from the Pilbara.

Almost 50 industry representatives attended, including from the WA Livestock Exporters Association.

It gave the authority a better understanding of the needs and concerns of the growing Pilbara industry.

The PPA plans to further consult with industry on the upgrade requirements.