The Port of Portland is a sheltered, all weather, deep-water port strategically located between the capital city ports of Adelaide and Melbourne providing a vital and growing trade link for South Eastern Australia. Portland harbour is formed by two man-made breakwaters with a north facing entrance channel. There are four common user berths catering for most types of bulk and general cargo vessels and a fifth special purpose berth dedicated to Portland Aluminium. The Port is a major import and export facility provider for the Green Triangle Region and beyond. The Port services the region's rich agricultural industry (mainly grains, cattle and sheep), the mineral sands industry, the forest products industry, the Portland Aluminium Smelter and the fertiliser industry. The storage facilities combined with efficient handling equipment and a dedicated workforce offers shipping turn-around times amongst the best in Australia. Portland has a reputation for efficient operations and has a stable industrial record. The Port was purchased from the Victorian Government in March 1996. The Port is operated by the Port of Portland Pty Limited and owned by Utilities Trust of Australia Pty Ltd (managed by Hastings Funds Management) and Palisade Ports Pty Ltd (managed by Palisade Investment Partners).