Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority named world’s best dry bulk port at IBJ awards gala in England

Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA) was named the world’s Best Dry Bulk Port at last week’s prestigious International Bulk Journal (IBJ) Awards gala in London, England.

HOPA, which handles shipping at Hamilton – Canada’s busiest Great Lake port – as well as Oshawa was also shortlisted for the Bulk Logistics Excellence Award and the Customer Care Award (cargo handling category).

The Best Dry Bulk Port Award, one of the most anticipated of the evening saw HOPA fend off challenges from North Sea Port (Belgium/Netherlands); the Port of Rotterdam (Netherlands); Port of Port Hedland (Pilbara Ports, Australia); and RAK Ports (United Arab Emirates),

“We are honoured by this recognition for our dedication to handling essential commodities, ensuring the seamless flow of goods to market,” said Gina Delle Rose-Ash, HOPA’s Supply Chain & Strategic Innovation Lead. “Our mission is to create prosperity by facilitating trade; handling commodities like grains and raw materials that are vital to our economy. This award is a testament to HOPA Ports’ pursuit of excellence in logistics, operations and our valued partnerships contributing to a robust and resilient supply chain.”

The IBJ Awards, which salute excellence in the maritime bulk industry, held its annual celebration in the nearly 500 year-old Honourable Artillery Company in central London last Monday in an event hosted by British comedian and actor Hugh Dennis.

Thordon Bearings, a Burlington marine industrial company which started life in Hamilton more than 100 years ago, also won Monday in the Environmental Protection – Marine category, while Logistics, a Montreal-based stevedore company with branches in 60 ports in 90 terminals – including Pier 12 in Hamilton – was honoured as Best Specialist Dry Bulk Port.

Logistics was also a winner last year in the Safety in Bulk Handling category.

Headquartered in Wales with roots in Liverpool – historically, one of the world’s great ports – IBJ has been the voice of the maritime bulk industry for 40 years.