- First export of cotton from cotton gin facility in Kununurra
- Example of strong Federal and State collaboration in supporting regional economic development
The Cook Government has welcomed the first Kimberley Cotton Gin cotton export from the Port of Wyndham, in a boost for diversifying regional economies and opening new trade opportunities in Australia's North West.
The cotton gin was supported by a $9 million investment by the Cook Government and a $34million Northern Australia Infrastructure Facility loan from the Australian Government.
A vessel operated by shipping line ANL on a regular schedule linking northern Australian ports with Singapore will carry the cotton to international markets. The first load consists of about 60 40-foot containers, each carrying approximately 104 bales of high-quality cotton.
The Port of Wyndham is operated by Cambridge Gulf Ltd, under the auspices of the Kimberley Ports Authority. The port is well on the way to gaining First Point of Entry status from Federal authorities, supported by a $14 million investment from the Cook Government in new biosecurity infrastructure.
This export milestone has been supported by strong co-operation between State and Federal agencies, the local cotton industry, Traditional Owners Miriuwung Gajerrong Corporation, and the Ord River District Co-operative.
As stated by Regional Development and Ports Minister Stephen Dawson:
"The export of cotton for the first time ever from Wyndham is a significant step following the groundbreaking opening of the Kimberley Cotton Gin earlier this year.
"The Cook Government is committed to ensuring our port infrastructure can support our regional communities through opening up new economic opportunities which will deliver jobs throughout the region."
As stated by Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis:
"This is a landmark achievement, which will see a new era of value-added agriculture forged in Northern Australia.
"I am proud to see this visionary investment come to fruition and look forward to seeing the benefits flow to local growers and producers, and to the broader regional economy and community."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'Anna:
"This shipment is a historic moment for the region, highlighting the growing potential of the Kimberley cotton industry, the diversification of the regional economy, and the strategic importance of the Port of Wyndham.
"The gin is already boosting local jobs across farming, processing, and transport and is a clear example of how targeted regional investment can unlock long-term economic benefits for the Kimberley."
