Transport, logistics and container park operator, Chalmers Industries has opened a AUD3.3 million (USD2.6 million) freight station at the Port of Brisbane.

Chalmers chief executive Graeme Birch said the freight station was the latest in a series of key port-based developments undertaken by the company since it established its container park and packing facility at Fisherman Islands in 2000.

"The new development, which incorporates a 3000 square metre (32,000 square feet) warehouse, container washing area and customs facilities, enables us to keep pace with continued trade growth at the Port of Brisbane, and most importantly to capitalise on the opportunities this growth presents," Birch said.

The new facility follows a 2.5-hectare (six acre) expansion of Chalmers' container park earlier this year.

Port of Brisbane Corporation acting chairman David Harrison said Brisbane's record trade growth, which saw container trade increase by 12 per cent and total trade reach 25.1 million tonnes in 2003/2004, was expected to continue.

He said the Chalmers facility was the first of several new developments planned for the port in 2005.

"Work has begun on a purpose-built 28-hectare (69-acre) long-term car storage precinct which will cater for the growing motor vehicle import market," Harrison added.