A global war on terrorism has forced the Mackay Port Authority to block public access to Mackay’s busy sea port.

A strict security cordon will be enforced from midnight tonight that will prevent the community accessing the port’s operational and commercial precincts.

The Mackay Port Authority has invested more than a $1 million into the security upgrade that includes a five kilometre security fence around the sea port, automatic gates on Harbour Road and state-of-the-art security surveillance cameras and equipment.

The MPA was one of the first sea ports in Australian to have its anti-terrorism plans endorsed by the Federal Department of Transport and Regional Services.

Port operations manager John Kraft said all Australian sea ports were given until July 1 to comply with new legislation under the Maritime Transport Security Act 2003.

This plan now guarantees Mackay’s exports access to international sea ports, particularly the United States.

Mr Kraft said access to the port’s new security zone would only be granted to people who had legitimate business reasons for entering the security regulated port.

“Automatic gates have now been installed on Harbour Road and people will now need to hold a port security identification card or visitor’s card to gain access to the security zone,” he said.

Mr Kraft said breaches under the Act could attract penalties of up to $5000.

He said all areas within the commercial precinct were now off limits, including water side, unless permission was obtained from the regional harbour master. Special approval was needed to conduct aquatic activities.

“Unfortunately fishing within the security zone, including the northern breakwater, is now off limits,” Mr Kraft said. “But fishermen will still be able to gain access to the southern breakwater under normal security conditions.”

Mr Kraft said additional information on the new port security plan and cordon were available on the MPA’s website at www.mackayports.com