Quantem, the leading independent bulk liquid storage and handling company in Australia and New Zealand, has officially opened its expanded Pelican Point Terminal in Adelaide following the completion of a major $52 million infrastructure project. The expansion adds 90,000 cubic metres of new diesel storage capacity to the facility, significantly enhancing South Australia’s fuel security capabilities.
The landmark project involved the design and construction of three 30,000 cubic metre diesel storage tanks along with associated infrastructure to support critical transport and infrastructure requirements across the region. The expansion positions the terminal as a strategic asset for meeting South Australia’s growing fuel storage needs.
Strategic Investment in Fuel Security
At the ceremony marking the official opening of the expanded terminal, Quantem CEO Nick Moen emphasised the project’s significance for Australia’s fuel security. “This is a major milestone in Quantem’s longstanding commitment to enhancing Australia’s fuel security,” Moen stated. “The expansion at Pelican Point ensures reliable, long-term fuel supply for South Australian businesses who depend on diesel for their everyday operations.”
The enhanced capacity addresses critical supply chain needs for businesses across South Australia, providing greater storage resilience and supply reliability for sectors that depend heavily on diesel fuel for their operations.
Future-Ready Infrastructure
Moen highlighted the terminal’s strategic positioning for future industry developments and energy transition initiatives. “This enhanced capacity also positions the terminal as a critical hub for future growth in the sector, including further potential for renewable fuels which is an important aspect of supporting energy transition for South Australia,” he explained.
This forward-looking approach reflects the evolving energy landscape and the increasing importance of infrastructure that can accommodate both traditional and alternative fuel sources as the energy sector transitions toward more sustainable solutions.
Strategic Partnership with Ampol
Michele Bardy, Ampol’s executive general manager of infrastructure, emphasised the importance of the partnership and the terminal’s role in the company’s supply chain. “Ampol is committed to safely and reliably supplying fuel to our customers, and Pelican Point terminal is a critical asset which supplies fuel to our South Australian customers,” Bardy stated. “We are proud to work with Quantem to increase diesel storage at this site and enhance our supply chain.”
The collaboration demonstrates how strategic partnerships between fuel retailers and storage operators can strengthen regional fuel security while improving operational efficiency across the supply chain.
Engineering Excellence and Collaboration
Mark Benson, MD and CEO of Saunders, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project’s success. “This project highlights what can be achieved through genuine collaboration,” Benson commented. “By uniting Saunders’ engineering and operational expertise with Quantem’s vision, we delivered a high-quality outcome that strengthens South Australia’s fuel security and supports Australia’s energy future.”
Benson described the project as “a landmark result and a testament to an impressive team effort,” reflecting the complex coordination required to successfully deliver large-scale infrastructure projects within operational terminals.
Government Support and Industry Partnership
The project received significant support through co-funding from the Federal Department of Industry’s Boosting Australia’s Diesel Storage Program. This government backing demonstrates the strategic importance placed on enhancing Australia’s fuel storage capabilities and energy security infrastructure.
The federal support program recognises the critical role that adequate fuel storage capacity plays in maintaining supply chain resilience and supporting economic activity across different regions of Australia.
Regional Impact and Economic Benefits
The expanded Pelican Point Terminal provides substantial benefits for South Australian businesses and the broader regional economy. The increased storage capacity ensures more reliable fuel supply chains, reducing potential disruptions that could impact industries ranging from transportation and logistics to mining and agriculture.
The project also represents a significant infrastructure investment in South Australia, supporting local employment during construction and providing long-term operational benefits for the state’s energy security.
Industry Leadership and Innovation
Quantem’s investment in the Pelican Point expansion reinforces the company’s position as a leading bulk liquid storage operator in the Australia-New Zealand region. The project demonstrates the company’s commitment to investing in infrastructure that meets both current market needs and future industry requirements.
The facility’s design consideration for potential renewable fuel applications positions it as a forward-thinking asset that can adapt to evolving energy market demands while continuing to serve traditional fuel storage requirements.
For more information visit www.quantem.com.au
