Latest Mackay Seaport News

New faces for Mackay Port Authority

Originally published on 7 July 2005

Transport and Main Roads Minister Paul Lucas today announced the appointment of a new chair and two new members to the Board of the Mackay Port Authority. Mr Lucas announced the appointment of new Chair Graham Davies and new board members John Raby and Steve Golding. Mr Raby has just retired as Head of Flight Operations (Chief Pilot) for Queensland-based Virgin Blue.

Previously he has worked in various aviation management positions overseas including fleet manager for Easy Jet in the United Kingdom. Mr Raby brings a tremendous amount of experience in the aviation industry onto the board, Mr Lucas said. Mr Golding retired as Director-General of the Department of Main Roads earlier this year. He has substantial experience in engineering and management.

He previously served as the director of the board of the Bundaberg Port Authority from 1991 to 1993. As well as his engineering and management experience, Mr Golding also has extensive knowledge of the issues facing regional Queensland, Mr Lucas said. Member for Mackay, Tim Mulherin welcomed the appointment of the new Chair.

Mr Davies is a well known local, who has been a board member since 1999 and is well qualified to take over the role of Chair for the Mackay Port Authority, Mr Mulherin said. Graham brings a wealth of management experience to the position. He was the previous Chair of Mackay Sugar, and is currently the Chair of the Queensland Rural Adjustment Authority. Mr Mulherin also welcomed the appointment of new board members Mr John Raby and Mr Steve Golding. Mr Raby's background in aviation and aviation safety will provide valuable support for the management of Mackay's growing airport, Mr Mulherin said.

Mr Golding will provide valuable experience in engineering and transport to the Board and its management, Mr Mulherin said. Mr Lucas said the Mackay Port Authority operated the Port of Mackay and Mackay Airport - two vital trade and passenger links. The Port of Mackay is a multi-commodity seaport, which relies heavily on the export of raw and refined sugar. Fuel for agriculture and the coal mining industry is now the major import. In 2002 Mackay Airport was judged the best regional airport in Australia. Passenger growth topped 580 000 in the 2004-05 financial year. Mackay is serviced by the major airlines with direct and connecting flights to major capital and regional cities.