• 3 min de lectura
• 3 min de lectura
For the first time ever, a port scheduling simulation was presented at the Safe and Efficient Port Operations Forum (Sepof) 2026 by the Port Authority of New South Wales in Australia. The system offered a practical perspective on the challenges of carrying out coordinations.
The annual event included this first live operational simulation and a panel of port captains moderated by Shipping Australia. More than 200 maritime and logistics professionals at the forefront of the Australian and global supply chain gathered for a unique opportunity for port sector stakeholders to share knowledge, exchange operational experiences, and strengthen sector-wide coordination to support Australia's trade and its global network of supply chains.
Captain John Finch, Director of Operations at the Port Authority of New South Wales, stated that Australia's reliance on maritime trade means robust coordination across the port and logistics sector is essential to support the country's economic prosperity.
"Around 99% of Australia's trade is carried by sea, supplying the essential goods we depend on. Disruptions at any point in the global supply chain have far-reaching repercussions, and events like Sepof help our industry understand and respond to those challenges by exploring real-world scenarios and learning from operational experience," said Finch.
The demonstration showcased the thought process of terminal operators, tug providers, marine pilots, and port authorities, as a panel analyzed the constantly evolving scenario.
"Participants were provided with a vessel schedule and asked to make decisions from the perspective of different port stakeholders under adverse weather conditions, as resources became limited and operational challenges arose. The exercise demonstrated the ripple effect that adverse weather conditions can have on overall port operations. Thanks to the panel's collaboration, delegates gained practical insight into the decisions, pressures, and collaboration required to keep trade flowing safely and efficiently," explained Finch.
The forum also featured its inaugural panel of port captains, bringing together operational leaders responsible for some of the country's busiest terminals.
Captain Myron Fernandes, Port of Sydney Manager for the NSW Port Authority, stated that port captains from NSW, Victoria, Southern Australia, and Tasmania discussed the challenges shaping port operations across the country.
"Each port has unique operational challenges and risk profiles. While each has its own perspective on issues, it's important that we recognize each other's viewpoints and work collaboratively to find solutions that enable safe and efficient operations," noted Fernandes.
"Bringing together all sectors of our port community provides us with an opportunity to build a shared understanding of the challenges we face and jointly explore opportunities for improvement," the executive added.
Sepof 2026 featured presentations and discussions from organizations across the maritime supply chain, including Ports Victoria, Flinders Port Holdings, TasPorts, DP World, Svitzer, CMA-CGM, DNV Australia, Australian Transport Safety Bureau, TT Club, OSM Thome, Weatherzone, AAT Port Kembla, ONE, and Oldendorff.
