Dear Colleagues
As we enter the merry month of September with Spring in our step, the good news on our new RTG’s is that from the first batch of nine RTGs, four have already been phased into service, while the remaining five—currently used for training—are scheduled to enter operations by the end of this week. The terminal has already observed a reduction in truck turn times since the start of the week of their operation.
The second batch of nine RTGs has been fully assembled. The Liebherr commissioning team will now complete the electrical work, painting, and installation of spreaders before beginning endurance testing, which takes place under live operational conditions. These units, along with the third batch, are expected to enter service more quickly as operator training and GPS mapping have already been completed. The coming deciduous season is expected to commence with a combined fleet of 18 new RTGs supported by the remaining legacy units.
The third and final batch of 10 new RTGs is scheduled to arrive on 5 September 2025, with berthing expected on 6 September. Transnet has accelerated delivery by more than two months, and these units are set to be deployed early in the new year, in time to support the second half of the deciduous season.
Now we need to get the message out that the PoCT is open for business and ready & Waiting for the surge of vessels to arrive –all terminals are ready!
Cognisance of being between seasons must be taken into account as the following stats show for week 25 31 August:
- CTCT : 14163 TEU handled target 14000; 15 GCH target 19, 35.5 SWH target 40; 7 hours wind delay; 31% stack occupancy 513 rail moves
- CTMPT : No container vessels handled this week!!
- FPT: 68% Berth Occupancy: 8 vessels handled: 1 container, 4 multi cargo, 1 B/B; 1 Dry bulk & 1 fruit : 1927 TEU; 9908.82 MT Dry Bulk, 11836.84 MT B/B General; 857.99 MT Steel; 3068 pallets fruit
- Fruit : Increase of 12% from last year and citrus season now coming to an end
- Equipment : no challenges, all 9 STS’ operational –
On the home front, our AGM is on Wednesday 17th September at Sun Square Hotel with Larry Soffer providing some lighthearted entertainment.
President Trump still on the cards and closer to home, Ministers Barbara Creecy and Parks Tau are waiting in the wings to engage with EWC, so watch this space!
We are also in the process of re-evaluating our marketing strategy make it easier for you to engage with us – any thoughts on how we can improve and value to your our services offered, please let us know.
For membership details, or if interested in becoming a committee member, please contact : noreen@ewc.org.za or info@ewc.org.za; to ensure your support of the independence of EWC – your voice is needed!!!
Smooth sailing ahead!
Sincerely;
Terry Gale
Chairman
