Link opponent to lobby for new port

A staunch opponent of the now-defunct Perth Freight Link has thrown its weight behind the establishment of an outer harbour in Kwinana and has called for the State Government to be transparent in the process of constructing a port in the Cockburn Sound.

Rethink the Link lobbied the previous State Government to drop the project, which Premier Mark McGowan duly did after winning the March election.

RTL co-ordinator Kim Dravnieks is eager to form the Western Harbours Alliance, which hopes to bring together stakeholders “to give confidence to the Government” in proceeding with the port project.

“At Rethink the Link we always wanted to advocate for sustainable transport solutions — the PFL was not meeting any of the needs of our shipping, roads or rail,” she said.

“We have decided to get behind and support industry’s efforts to establish the Kwinana port. But what we want is really good due process so we look at the environmental and social impacts — and the financial benefits that would come out of this.

“With any progression there will always be concerns. What we have got to do is examine them and see if there is a win-win situation.”

The City of Kwinana has advocated for a port in the Cockburn Sound and Mayor Carol Adams welcomed the formation of the alliance. “The City is thrilled to see such a passionate group of community members rallying behind the outer harbour project,” she said.

“It is testament to the importance of the outer harbour that we have seen such enthusiasm from both the WA Government and the general public.”

Kwinana Industries Council chief executive Chris Oughton said the Kwinana Industrial Area, the Western Trade Coast and the communities that surround it would benefit from a a deep-water port. “The big picture here is about the very significant business and therefore employment opportunities that will open up for the State through a transitioned port presence into the industrial area,” he said.