Big Plans Ahead for Karumba

Karumba Set to Become a Major Port for North Queensland

📅 30 June, 2025

A bold new vision is on the horizon for the Gulf community of Karumba, one that could reshape Northern Queensland’s freight and export landscape for years to come.

According to a recent report in the North West Weekly, the Port of Karumba may soon take on a much larger role in the region’s economy. Gulf Savannah Development, backed by the Queensland Government, is finalising a business case and cost-benefit analysis to transform the port into a major freight hub for the North.

What’s Driving the Proposal?

The move comes as industries across North West Queensland, particularly mining and agriculture,  look for alternative routes to export markets. Currently, most freight travels east to Townsville. But that path is often long, expensive, and congested. A revitalised Karumba port could offer a western export route, slashing travel time and improving logistics for inland producers.

From Dormant to Dynamic

While the Port of Karumba has handled up to one million tonnes of freight annually in the past, it’s currently operating at a fraction of its potential, moving around 250,000 tonnes, primarily zinc concentrate via pipeline from the Century Mine.

That’s likely to change. Junior mining companies, such as North West Phosphate, have already signaled their intent to use Karumba as a shipping point transporting product from inland sites to the coast for processing and export. It’s this renewed interest that’s driving the push to expand.

What’s Being Proposed?

The proposal outlines a staged approach to development that includes:

  • Port dredging and infrastructure upgrades
  • Road and wet-season access improvements
  • Expanded capacity for mining, agriculture, and even tourism logistics

Historical studies suggest that, with the right investment, Karumba could handle between 3 and 13 million tonnes per year, a significant leap from today’s output.

Why This Matters

This isn’t just a logistics project, it’s a regional transformation plan. A fully operational Karumba port could become a game-changer for supply chains across the Gulf and beyond, while opening new economic opportunities for local businesses and workers.

Stay tuned for more Gulf News.

KARUMBA POINT SUNSET CARAVAN PARK

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY.

Top 10 Reasons to Take a Caravan Trip This Year

Join the growing travel trend

Dream of packing up and hitting the open road with no strict schedules, no airport queues, and a front-row seat to some of the most beautiful spots in the country? Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or new to van life, this is the year to make it happen.

Here are our Top 10 Reasons why a caravan trip might be exactly what your soul (and sanity) needs right now:

1. Freedom to Roam

No check-in times. No security lines. No baggage limits. With a caravan, you set the pace. Want to stay an extra day by the beach or take a detour through the outback? Go for it. Your trip, your rules.

2. Nature at Your Doorstep

Wake up to birdsong, fall asleep under a blanket of stars, and enjoy your morning cuppa with a view of the beach or wildlife. Caravan life gets you right into nature without sacrificing comfort.

3. More Affordable Than You Think

Say goodbye to costly flights, pricey hotels, and eating out for every meal. With your own kitchen, bedroom, and wheels, you’ve already got most of your essentials covered.

4. Pet-Friendly Adventures

Your furry mates don’t need to be left behind. Most caravan parks (including ours!) are pet-friendly, with plenty of space for your doggo to stretch their legs and feel the freedom too.

5. Quality Time, Reimagined

Whether it’s with your partner, kids, mates, or solo—it’s hard not to bond over shared campfire stories, stargazing, or roadside singalongs. Van trips create memories that stick.

6. Safer, Self-Contained Travel

In today’s world, many travellers are leaning toward options that allow for more control over their space. With a caravan, you’ve got your own bathroom, kitchen, and sleeping quarters – no shared elevators or lobbies here!

7. See More, Unpack Less

Why stay in one spot when you can wake up somewhere new every day without the hassle of repacking a suitcase every time? Your caravan is your mobile home base.

8. Discover Hidden Gems

Take the backroads. Visit the lesser-known towns (like Karumba Point). Camp in places no hotel could ever take you. A caravan road-trip is the ultimate off-the-beaten-path experience – perfect for discovering Australia’s best-kept secrets. And we have the best accommodation in Karumba!

9. Connection (of the Best Kind)

Sure, you might lose mobile signal for a bit but that’s part of the magic. Caravan travel invites you to disconnect from the noise and reconnect with what really matters: nature, people, and yourself.

10. You Deserve the Adventure

After everything you’ve handled lately—work, responsibilities, the busy day-to-day—maybe what you really need is a fresh breeze, an open highway, and a few nights under the stars. Let this be the year you gift yourself that joy.

Ready to Roll?

We’ve got powered and unpowered sites, deluxe villas (if you want a night away from the van), shady spots under the palms, a spectacular swimming pool, fabulous sunsets, incredible fishing, and all the creature comforts to make your stay a ripper. Whether you’re a first-timer or long-time road warrior, we’d love to welcome you.

Book your site now and turn your caravan dreams into reality.

READY TO BOOK YOUR ROADTRIP?  

COME TO KARUMBA POINT SUNSET CARAVAN PARK – WHERE THE OUTBACK MEETS THE SEA.

BOOK YOUR STAY TODAY.  CONTACT US if you have any questions