The Port of Hastings has ushered in a new era of leadership, with six directors appointed to the Port of Hastings Corporation (PoHC) Board to guide the state-owned port through a period of rapid change.
The appointments come ahead of the release of the Port Development Strategy 2025 and as planning continues for the Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal — a project billed as central to Victoria’s shift towards clean energy.
A mix of government, industry and community expertise
The new directors bring experience across transport, finance, government policy, law and governance. Chair Caryn Anderson, a former Port of Melbourne executive, has been tasked with steering the Board as the port positions itself for growth in freight and energy.
Other appointees include Carolyn Baker, with legal and executive experience in Melbourne’s transport sector; Mario D’Elia, a senior financial and infrastructure adviser; and Lachlan McDonald, who heads intergovernmental relations at the Department of Transport and Planning.
They are joined by Aisha Nicolay, Chair of the Public Transport Ombudsman with a focus on governance and organisational culture, and Suzanna Sheed AM, a lawyer and former independent MP for Shepparton.
Port’s role in Victoria’s energy transition
While the Port of Hastings has long been a hub for bulk and general cargo, its future is increasingly tied to the renewable energy sector. The proposed terminal at Western Port is expected to handle the importation and assembly of wind turbine components for offshore projects.
PoHC says the new Board will be critical in ensuring those plans align with community expectations, environmental protections and Victoria’s economic priorities.
Local and regional significance
For the Mornington Peninsula and Western Port region, the appointments signal a stronger focus on jobs and industry linked to renewable energy. At the same time, the Corporation faces scrutiny from environmental groups who are watching closely how port expansion balances with Western Port’s Ramsar-listed wetlands.
Outgoing Board members were thanked for their service as the new team takes charge of guiding the Port into its next stage.
More details about the Board and upcoming projects are available at portofhastings.vic.gov.au.
