Co-op Bulk Handling grain storage facility to be built at Forrestfield

December 6, 1995

The planned expansion of the Fremantle Port Authority Harbour container area will necessitate the closure and relocation of the Co-operative Bulk Handling facility.

Transport Minister Eric Charlton said today a new CBH grain storage and handling complex would be built on a 16-hectare site at the Westrail Marshalling Yard at Forrestfield.

"The relocation of the CBH facility at North Fremantle will reduce by an estimated 10 per cent, heavy vehicles travelling to and from the port, benefiting other road users and residents in Perth and Fremantle," Mr Charlton said.

"In future, grain-carrying trucks will be removed from all other metropolitan roads and highways, restricting these vehicles to Roe Highway, a defined heavy haulage route."

The Minister said the first phase of the complex was expected to be completed in time to receive the 1997-98 grain harvest.

A number of related industries were also expected to relocate within close proximity of CBH in a proposed agripark-type development.

The North Fremantle export terminal was established in 1964 and became a metropolitan receival point after the commissioning of the Kwinana grain-handling terminal.

Mr Charlton said a package had been negotiated with the company, including an $8 million buy-out of the North Fremantle lease.

CBH chairman of directors Mick Gayfer said the new complex would use the most modern technology available to provide the most efficient service possible.

Mr Gayfer said the initial stage of the new facility would cater for grower deliveries, and distribution and value-adding such as cleaning, bagging and containerisation of grain for niche markets.

Fremantle Port Authority general manager Kerry Sanderson said relocation of CBH was part of a major overhaul of port infrastructure and facilities to cater for future container trade growth through the port.

"This includes the reorganisation and consolidation of the port's privately operated stevedoring terminals on North Quay to provide more efficient handling of container ships over the next 20 years or more," Mrs Sanderson said.

CBH North Fremantle operations will cease in three years and the silos will be demolished soon after the site has been vacated.

Media contact: Ian Hasleby 321 7333 / Pager: 480 9999 (94065)