The loader will be the third for the Port of Newcastle, the world’s largest for coal export, and increase capacity for growing coal exports from the Hunter Valley. The NCIG is aiming for an additional 30 million tonnes of annual export capacity, worth an estimated $2 billion. Clayton Utz is advising the Government in conjunction with the Crown Solicitor’s Office. Partner John Shirbin is leading the firm’s team, which includes partner and environmental law specialist Brendan Bateman, senior associate Stuart Cosgriff and solicitor Philip Sealey.

Holding Redlich acted for a leading Australian film, television and digital production group, the Omnilab Group, in its acquisition this month of 50 per cent of Dubsat Pty Ltd, AAV Digital Pictures and Illoura production and post production businesses in Sydney, Melbourne and Auckland. AAV Limited was the vendor and the purchase consideration was $5 million.

Herbert Geer & Rundle advised Zig Inge Retirement Villages Group (ZIG) on the sale of a 49 per cent interest to Macquarie Capital Alliance Group (MCAG) for $100 million. The Inge family will retain a 51 per cent stake in ZIG and responsibility for day-to-day management of the group.

Corporate partner Adam Brooks led the deal, supported by Michael Truelove, and worked closely with the Inge family on a “dual track” process, with the owners seriously considering an IPO before agreeing on the MCAG investment.