Darwin Port Operations

16/10/2026

Strengthening Partnerships in Community & Industry

As a proud supporter of Cancer Council NT, Darwin Port was delighted to secure this unique Royal Australian Navy experience through a fundraising auction.

Our crew had the privilege of participating in a Navy engagement team building day hosted at HMAS Coonawarra, giving our people an insight into Navy leadership principles, training systems and operational fleet activities that support Australia’s maritime defence capabilities.

From getting out on the water in RHIB’s, to learning about bridge simulator technology and touring ‘HMAS Cape Woolamai’, the day offered an engaging look into Navy life on the base. More importantly, it was a valuable opportunity to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Darwin Port and RAN. Through events like these, we continue to build stronger connections and deepen our understanding of each other’s operations, reinforcing our shared commitment to safe, efficient, and effective maritime activities across Northern Australia.

A sincere thank you to Warrant Officer Dennis Bentley and the entire RAN team for their warm hospitality, generosity in sharing their knowledge, and providing such a memorable and rewarding experience. We appreciate the work they do every day in support of Australia’s maritime security and interests.

Image captions:
1. Riding aboard a RAN RHIB
2. Testing our skills on the RAN bridge simulator
3. Tour aboard HMAS Cape Woolamai, with WO Bentley & Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander Pracy.
4. Our team, Command Building HMAS Coonawarra

08/10/2026

Connecting NT Resources to Global Markets

Bulk carrier ‘ZY Kunshan’ successfully completed a direct voyage from Darwin Port to Landbridge Port in Shandong, China, carrying approximately 60,505 tonnes of magnetite concentrate sourced from Northern Territory’s Peko rehabilitation project near Tennant Creek.

This milestone demonstrates Darwin Port’s commitment and long-term vision in facilitating Northern Australia’s trade with Asia, supporting economic growth within the Territory’s expanding resources sector, and promoting international markets for export.

Darwin Port congratulates all involved in assisting with the successful outcome of this shipment both here in Australia and in China and looks forward to supporting future shipments.

Image captions:
• ‘ZY Kunshan’ all fast at sunset alongside Darwin Port’s East Arm Wharf.
• ‘ZY Kunshan’ commences loading at Darwin Port’s East Arm Wharf.
• ‘ZY Kunshan’ alongside at Landbridge Port, China.
• Landbridge & Darwin Port celebrate the arrival of the magnetite shipment.

06/10/2026

⭐ Nominations are now open for the 2027 Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards ⭐

At Darwin Port, we believe in investing in the future of the Northern Territory. For the second year running we are proud supporters and Prize Patron of the NTYAA, we are honoured to recognise and celebrate the outstanding young Territorians making a positive impact across our communities, industries, and beyond. Each of the 12 category winners will receive a $1,000 prize grant, to support their future endeavours.

The hopes and potential of Northern Territory youth is bright; pathways are being led by some truly inspirational individuals.

If you, or if you know of someone who deserves this recognition, please click the link below and nominate them!
https://awardsaustralia.com/young-achiever-awards/nt/

💰 $1,000 for every category winner!

Thanks to Darwin Port Operations, Prize Patron of the Northern Territory Young Achiever Awards, each 2027 category winner will receive a $1,000 prize grant to support their next steps. 🙌

Whether it helps them grow a project or business, invest in their education, develop their career or continue making an impact in their community, this prize gives our young achievers an extra boost to keep moving forward.

With 2027 nominations opening soon, now is the perfect time to think about a young Territorian doing something remarkable.

Know someone aged 30 or under who deserves to be recognised? Refer them now and we’ll contact them when nominations open:
👉 https://awardsaustralia.com/refer-a-young-achiever/

A huge thank you to Darwin Port Operations for continuing to back young Territorians and recognise the contribution they make across the Northern Territory. 💙

Follow Darwin Port:
🔗 https://www.instagram.com/darwin_port_operations/
🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/company/darwin-port/

01/10/2026

As we bid farewell to the dry season, Darwin Port is reflecting on a fantastic 2026 season filled with memorable moments on Darwin Harbour.

As proud supporters of recreational sailing and our local sailing community, the Darwin Port team enjoyed some wonderful on water experiences this season.

From learning the ropes aboard Darwin Sailing Clubs RS Quest fleet off Fannie Bay, and a wrap up event on the lush lawns of Donnie’s Den, to a breakfast cruise hosted by the Dinah Beach Cruising Yacht Club to watch the start of the Darwin to Banda Neira Yacht race & rally, these were both great opportunities to experience our harbour from a different perspective.

A highlight was cheering on our Senior Pilot Vessel Master Brett Hall, as he set sail in the race on ‘Mango Madness’ alongside his family.

Thank you to both Clubs for bringing our community together, and for providing two iconic waterfront venues that showcase Darwin’s stunning foreshore and unforgettable Top End sunsets.

Image captions:
• Darwin Port team with DSC RS Quests.
• Darwin Port team on the DBCYC Cruise (front to back): Kevin Clarke - WHS Safety Lead, Parth Kukreti - Ship Scheduler, David Cairns - Manager Port Logistics & David Power – GM Operations.
• Sailing Fleet Banda Neira Yacht race & rally.
• Sailing vessel ‘Mango Madness’.

29/09/2026

A Decade of Dedication

Over the past decade Captain Luca Ferro has been a trusted presence on Darwin Harbour, safely guiding vessels with professionalism, skill, and unwavering dedication.

Darwin Port is proud to recognise Luca’s achievement on reaching 10 years as an MPL5 Pilot.

Milestones like these are a reminder that behind every successful operation are committed and loyal individuals whose expertise and devotion make all the difference.

Thank you, Luca, for your valuable contribution, your operational excellence, mentorship, and teamwork have been instrumental in Darwin Port’s success.

Image captions:
• Captain Luca Ferro piloting Italian Training Ship ‘Amerigo Vespucci’.
• Captain Luca Ferro conducting the plaque exchange with Captain Giuseppe Lai, aboard ‘Amerigo Vespucci’.

28/09/2026

Darwin Port is pleased to congratulate three outstanding members of our Marine operations team for their role in saving a life at sea.

Marine Pilot Captain Chris Cridland, Pilot Vessel Master Rawson McCrae and Pilot Vessel Crew Joshua Witkin, were recently awarded the Australian Maritime Officers Union (AMOU) Distinguished Lifesaving Award in recognition of their valiant efforts assisting sailor Digby Campbell and his vessel ‘Singapore Sling’ in Darwin Harbour.

This recognition highlights the critical role our Marine Operations team plays in keeping people safe on the water. Operating 24/7, our Pilot Vessel crew are often the first responders to maritime emergencies, equipped with Advanced Resus & Oxygen therapy training, as well as trauma response first aid equipment onboard, to enhance lifesaving capabilities during the transit back to shore.

We are incredibly proud of Chris, Rawson and Josh and acknowledge the broader emergency services and maritime community who work together to keep our harbour safe.

24/09/2026

Members of the Darwin Port team recently participated in the 17th annual Darwin Harbour Clean Up Day, run by Larrakia Nation. We are proud to be an ongoing supporter & participant of this event, which targets rubbish removal from Darwin Harbour & surrounds, raising awareness about the impacts that rubbish has on our marine ecosystems.

Covering 500m of Mica Beach, the team filled 7 bags with a mix of interesting items, including fishing lures, underwear, & a treasure of glass bottles date stamped from the 1940’s, evidence of when Australian military occupied this area during WWII. Thank you to Polaris Marine for once again generously providing transport for the Darwin Port team – a special shout out to Mel, & skippers Lex & Harry!

Fun fact: Did you know that there was a Mica Beach restaurant during the 1970’s? Patrons were transported to & from the venue using a WWII amphibious landing craft, aptly named the “Buffalo” – Historical Society NT.
Mica Beach is a pristine beach & natural habitat, it is up to us all to keep it that way, so please remember to “Bin it or take it with you”!

Image captions:
1. Polaris & Darwin Port crew at Mica Beach.
2. Harry, Polaris Marine & Adam, Darwin Port.
3. The Darwin Port team at Mica Beach.

17/09/2026

Darwin Port was proud to host the 2026 Northern Territory Cruise Forum at our Cruise Ship Terminal this week. It was a pleasure to welcome Minister Marie-Clare Boothby MLA, distinguished guests, cruise industry professionals and advocates from across the country. Valuable conversations, strong partnerships, and plenty of excitement continues to grow about the future of cruise tourism in the Territory.

We look forward to the imminent commencement of the 2026 Australian cruise ship season, with the welcome arrival of 22 cruise ship visits to Darwin between now and the end of this year.

16/09/2026

Sometimes, looking out for each other starts with a conversation.

At Darwin Port, looking after our people is a priority. That's why we've invested in Mental Health First Aiders, helping to create a workplace where support is available, conversations are encouraged, and everyone feels valued.

Our Maritime Security Guards are the first faces port users see when entering East Arm Wharf. Proudly wearing their MHFA shirts, they welcome people to the port each day while promoting an important message around mental health and wellbeing. Carrying the message "This is a Conversation Starter," they're helping encourage meaningful conversations about mental health and reminding us that a simple check in can make a real difference.

Caring for and remaining connected to our workmates helps us shape a stronger and safer workplace.

11/09/2026

Darwin Port had the pleasure of supporting the PIANC Australia & New Zealand, Engineers Australia Northern Division (NT) site visit to Kuru Wharf at HMAS Coonawarra.

The event brought engineering industry professionals, students, and stakeholders together for a guided tour of the facility, providing a unique insight into one of Darwin's key maritime infrastructure assets, highlighting the important role maritime infrastructure plays in supporting the Territory's economy, supply chains, and defence capabilities. The tour was followed by a technical presentation on Project Risk Management by Kevin Kaushal, and valuable networking to close out the day.

Congratulations to Chris Sapwell, Darwin Port’s Graduate Engineer on his key involvement with organising the event, and to PIANC, Engineers Australia NT, and all attendees for contributing to a successful event. We are proud to support opportunities that foster industry collaboration, professional development, and stronger connections across the maritime and engineering sectors.

Photo Captions:
1) PIANC & Engineers Australia NT site tour group.
2) Chris Sapwell, Darwin Port, Kevin Kaushal, PWC & Levashini Gunasegar, GHD.