Port Nelson has announced the commencement of a trial of a new roster system to provide stevedores with working pattern stability, and support the nature of a 24-hour port operation.

This is great news for the Port and the Rail and Maritime Transport Union, who have been working together for a year to achieve this goal. The new roster system will enable the Port to schedule shifts and allocate resources more effectively, making sure that our team can work efficiently and productively. This will also provide stevedores with a better work-life balance and increased stability, all while prioritising safety.

According to Matthew McDonald, General Manager of Operations, the current situation can be a challenge as stevedores currently work without a roster. “It’s challenging with changeable and intermittent shipping schedules and the challenges of the tidal Port. The roster will work to bring in more certainty as to when people are working and at the same time retain the great service offered to customers through Port Nelson.”

L to R: Will Piket, Allan Addison-Saipe, Matt McDonald, Ramon Tovey, Shane King, Nicky Dowling

The trial will give Port Nelson a good insight into how this particular roster system works for our people and operation, and enable the Port to focus on any areas that need adjusting. The trial will run from May to July 2023.