Upcoming Huron Marine and Economic Forum sheds light on potential of the Port of Goderich

GPMC President Frank Hurkmans with Goderich Mayor Trevor Bazinet (right).

When people in Huron County think of the Port of Goderich, they often picture the salt mine and grain elevators that have defined the waterfront for decades.

The upcoming Huron Marine and Economic Forum, presented by Parrish and Heimbecker, is shining a light on something different – the possible future of the port and its potential to become a critical economic driver for the region.

This conversation is about more than infrastructure for Travor Bazinet, Mayor of Goderich.

“We’re not just talking about what the port is today,” Bazinet said.

“We’re talking about what it could be; how it might connect Huron County to global markets in ways we haven’t seen before.”

The port’s current role is important but limited. It hands bulk commodities such as salt, grain and aggregate.

What excites local leaders now is the potential for container shipping, intermodal connections, and expanded rail service, all ideas that would fundamentally expand the port’s relevance if pursued.

“Imagine the Port of Goderich as a hub for container or intermodal shipping. It could change the map for Huron County businesses,” explained Frank Hurkmans, President of the Goderich Port Management Corporation (GPMC).

“Manufacturers here could get their goods to market faster, with fewer middle steps, and at lower cost. That possibility makes this port relevant not only to Goderich, but to the entire county.”

Skeptics might ask: Why should residents or businesses in Clinton, Wingham or Seaforth care about a facility on the lakeshore?

Mayor Bazinet answers that with one word – opportunity.

Exploring container shipping or intermodal service opens supply chains that are otherwise out of reach.

“Think about our agricultural producers, or our advanced manufacturers,” Bazinet said.

“Right now, they rely on trucking to get goods to Toronto or Windsor before they ever leave the country. If it proves viable, a container facility here could put them one step closer to export markets.”

Hurkmans added that large component shipping, such as wind turbine blades or oversized machinery, could also be part of the discussion.

These heavy loads can often stress the road systems, and Hurkmans believes that moving them by water instead of highway could save wear and tea, reduce costs, and make this region more attractive to industries that build big.

Hurkmans also does not want to overlook the importance of Bruce Power. With massive construction projects planned at Bruce Power, being able to bring major components into Goderich and truck them a short distance north would be a game-changer compared to hauling them all the way from other ports.

“Bruce Power is one of our largest employers and a major driver of the local economy,” added Hurkmans.

“Supporting their growth supports all of Huron County.”

At the Marine Forum on Thursday, October 2 at Beach Street Station in Goderich, attendees will hear more about how the port fits into broader regional strategies.

Expanding Goderich’s role as a marine hub could tie into Ontario’s transportation networks, Canada’s trade agenda and the Great Lakes shipping industry.

“The global supply chain is shifting,” noted Hurkmans.

“Companies are rethinking where and how they move goods. If we’re ready with the right infrastructure, and if the demand is there, Huron County could catch that wave instead of being left behind.”

The Huron Chamber of Commerce is hosting the forum, and the event is also about connecting local businesses to the big picture.

Chamber members and other attendees will hear directly from industry experts, policymakers, and municipal leaders about what these potential changes could mean for their sectors.

“Sometimes we think of the port as distant from daily business life in the county,” Bazinet admitted.

“But the truth is, whether you run a farm operation, a factory, or a service company, improved transportation links help you. Lower costs, fasting shipping, new markets – those benefits ripple out.”

Hurkmans underscored that this isn’t just about ships and docks. This is about jobs, competitiveness and growth.

He said exploring new possibilities for the port is about creating tools to help this region succeed.

These changes won’t happen overnight, and nothing is certain. Investments would be required for container handling, intermodal facilities, or oversized cargo. Decisions will involve multiple levels of government and private partners.

Conversations like the Marine Forum is a place to start.

“Momentum is everything,” said Hurkmans.

“The more we discuss the port as a future gateway, the better positioned we are to take advantage of opportunities when they arise.”

The forum on October 2 will feature keynote speaker Daniel Tisch, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.