Bell Bay, Tasmania facts for kids

Bell Bay is an important industrial area and port. It is located in northern Tasmania, Australia. You can find it on the eastern side of the Tamar River, just south of George Town. In 2021, about 3.6 million tonnes of goods moved through its port. This includes both items being sent out (exports) and items coming in (imports).

A Look Back: Bell Bay's History

The Bell Bay Post Office was open for a period of time. It first opened its doors on 18 September 1951. The post office then closed in 1973.

What's Made Here: Industries in Bell Bay

Bell Bay is home to some big factories. One of these is an aluminium smelter. This factory makes aluminium and is run by a company called Rio Tinto.

Another important factory is the Tasmanian Electro Metallurgical Company. This company makes manganese alloy. It is operated by South32. Bell Bay also used to have a power station. The Bell Bay Power Station stopped operating in 2009. A new power station, the Tamar Valley Power Station, was built right next door.

Getting Around: Transport in Bell Bay

Bell Bay is well-connected for transport. In May 1974, a railway line was built. This 35-kilometre Bell Bay railway line connects Bell Bay to the main Tasmanian Government Railways network. It branches off near Launceston.

The railway line was first built to carry logs for export. Today, it mostly carries large shipping containers. These containers move goods to and from the port.

Where Ships Dock: Bell Bay's Berths

The very first wharf in Bell Bay opened in 1927. Today, the port has seven main places where ships can dock. These docking spots are called berths. Each berth is used for different types of cargo.