
Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame, a milestone General Manager Damien Dederer says belongs to the entire team that keeps the North Queensland Export Terminal running.
While it is the first time Abbot Point Operations has received a Hall of Fame accolade, Damien noted the organisation’s long history of achievement across four decades includes major infrastructure milestones, strong community partnerships and environmental programs.
“We’re honoured to receive this award,” he said.
“We don’t do what we do for awards and accolades, but it’s lovely for the 190 men and women who work at Abbot Point Operations to keep the North Queensland Export Terminal running to be recognised for their hard work and what that work means for this amazing place we get to call home.”
On the night members of Abbot Point Operations leadership and community teams attended and Damien said having them share in the moment was a fitting tribute to what they do to deliver our Community Support Program and more.
When asked what set the business apart, he pointed to long-term collaboration rather than any single achievement.
“The successes Abbot Point Operations and the North Queensland Export Terminal have enjoyed are rooted in hard and collaborative work between private enterprise, the not-for-profit sector, and government over many decades,” he said.
“The Hall of Fame award is a reflection of that.”
He also highlighted the terminal’s economic significance, something he believes many locals may not fully realise. The export of Queensland’s high-quality thermal and metallurgical coal, facilitated by the terminal, contributes substantial royalties to the state budget. Locally, Abbot Point Operations workforce and contractors support hundreds of families, with flow-on benefits to small businesses throughout the region.
Damien extended his thanks to the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Bowen Chamber of Commerce Inc., and Whitsunday Regional Council for an event that both celebrates local business and strengthens community ties.
Abbot Point Operations has been inducted into the Business Legends of the Whitsundays Hall of Fame