BALLINA

• AUBNK
• Latitude: -28.8673
• Longitude: 153.5608
• East Australia
• Port in Australia

Location: Australia

Ballina is a coastal town and port located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia. The port primarily serves as a regional hub for marine activities, including commercial fishing, recreational boating, and occasional cargo loading and unloading. Below is a detailed description and specifications of the marine port at Ballina:

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 28.87° S latitude, 153.56° E longitude
• Proximity: Located near the mouth of the Richmond River, the port provides access to the Pacific Ocean.

Port Specifications:

• Port Type: Small regional port
• Natural Features: The port is situated on the Richmond River, offering protection from major oceanic tides and waves.
• Entrance Conditions: Conditions at the river entrance can be challenging due to shifting sandbars, which may affect larger vessels.

Facilities:

• Wharves and Jetties: The port has several wharves and piers which cater to smaller commercial and fishing vessels, as well as recreational boats.
• Berths: Limited number of berths suitable for small to medium-sized vessels.
• Boat Ramps: Multiple boat ramps are available for launching recreational boats.
• Marina: Ballina Marina provides mooring facilities and basic services for yachts and small private vessels.

Services:

• Cargo Handling: Limited cargo handling facilities; typically focused on bulk goods and supplies for the local community.
• Fuel and Water: Fuel (diesel and petrol) and potable water are available at select docks.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Basic repair services are available, including marine mechanics and limited dry dock facilities.
• Fishing Facilities: Facilities are tailored to support the local commercial fishing industry, including ice supplies and fish processing services.

Navigation and Safety:

• Navigational Aids: The river and port have various navigational aids including buoys and markers to assist with safe passage.
• Piloting Requirements: Larger vessels or those unfamiliar with the river entrance may require pilotage services due to the challenging conditions at the bar.

Nearby Infrastructure:

• Transport Links: Good road connections to major highways, facilitating the transportation of goods to and from the port.
• Accommodations: Various accommodation options are available in Ballina, including hotels, motels, and holiday parks.

Environmental Considerations:

• Wildlife Protection: The port area and surrounding waters are home to diverse marine life and local authorities emphasize the protection of these ecosystems.
• Water Quality: Regular monitoring of water quality is conducted to ensure it meets environmental standards.

Additional Notes:

• Tourism: Ballina is a popular area for tourists, and the port contributes to the local economy through recreational boating and tourist activities.
• Development Plans: There may be ongoing or future plans for port upgrades to accommodate increasing demands from commercial and recreational users.

Overall, the marine port at Ballina plays a key role in supporting the local economy, particularly through fishing and tourism, while maintaining a balance with environmental conservation efforts.