25 Years in the Pilbara

At OMC, we’re incredibly proud of our history of partnering long term with many of our clients, and highly value these close working relationships.

2020 marks 25 years of DUKC® in the Pilbara with both the Dampier and Port Hedland systems being commissioned in 1995. Notably, in 2020 iron ore became the first Australian commodity to crack $100 billion in annual export value. Whilst COVID19 travel restrictions ruled out on-site celebrations, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the incredible growth of the Pilbara iron ore industry.

In 1995 Port Hedland had just achieved a record annual throughput of 57.6m tonnes, and with DUKC^® sailed 3 vessels on a tide with a combined cargo of almost 500,000. This year, iron ore exports from the Pilbara exceeded 850m tonnes, and more than 8b tonnes of iron ore has sailed under DUKC^® advice since 1995.

Notably, in 2020 iron ore became the first Australian commodity to crack $100 billion in annual export value.

Since those early versions of DUKC^®, the system has since evolved into with a full suite of port optimisation and risk management solutions. So whilst the technology has changed, the goals haven’t: safer, more efficient shipping and port operations.

“While efficient, Pilbara Ports Authority has also sought to be innovative, and has invested in world-leading projects and maritime technologies to maximise port efficiency and safety.

These have allowed for the management of larger vessels, increasing vessel draft and increasing loaded capacity on vessels, while reducing risk.”

Roger Johnston, CEO, Pilbara Ports Authority, September 2020