Portside a winner

PORTSIDE Wharf in Hamilton has won the ‘Most Efficient Port Services 2008’ award ahead of 231 nominated destinations worldwide.

The award was given by Dream World Cruise Destinations magazine for delivering a service beyond expectation.

Gary Berry — whose company Lewis Group oversees ticketing, security, stevedoring, X-ray equipment, customs and quarantine at the wharf — says the award is recognition of Portside’s streamlined logistics.

"When a ship arrives at Portside Wharf with disembarkation and embarkation requirements, we usually have approximately 100 staff on hand to assist passengers and the range of purpose-built shipping amenities means we can turn around deadlines efficiently," says Berry.

"It is Australia’s most modern and up-to-date purpose-built passenger facility and well deserving of the award."

Portside is one of the first developments of its kind worldwide to offer shipping, residential and retail facilities for up to 2500 passengers.

With the capacity to operate every day and attracting over 150,000 visitors each year, Portside Wharf can accommodate 95 per cent of all cruise ships sailing in the Asia-Pacific region.