TasPorts’ King Island shipping service, Bass Island Line (BIL), celebrates 1000 voyages of the MV John Duigan vessel this week, marking a major milestone in the island’s connectivity.
Posted
12 May 2026
Since 2018, the purpose-built vessel has delivered a weekly shipping service transporting essential cargo between the Port of Devonport and Port of Grassy, underpinning the Island’s economy and way of life.
With nearly a decade of service, John Duigan has:
BIL General Manger Toby Terry said the milestone reflected the scale but also the reliability of the King Island service.
“Vessels like the John Duigan are a lifeline for remote island communities, transporting essential goods and services.”
“Week in, week out - often in challenging Bass Strait conditions, John Duigan has supported King Island when it matters most.
“This milestone is a celebration of island life, and the people who work behind the scenes to keep our remote ports operating for the benefit of all Tasmanians,” Mr Terry said.
Beyond commercial freight, the John Duigan has supported public health initiatives like bringing the breast screening bus and bone density bus to the island, giving the community access to essential health services at home, without needing to travel to the mainland.
The vessel provided vital support during the 2024 drought, maintaining freight certainty for producers and businesses at a time of real need.
In 2026, several major infrastructure projects including the construction of the new Telstra telecommunications tower at Grassy; three replacement wind turbines for Hydro Tasmania; and the delivery of road maintenance plant, equipment and materials, were all supported by the John Duigan’s service.
“Voyage 1000 is more than just a number. It represents Bass Island Line’s enduring commitment to King Island, its producers, businesses, and families.”
“BIL would like to sincerely thank all of our customers, community members and business partners for their continued support and loyalty.
“Their trust in our service is greatly appreciated, and we remain committed to providing everyone a safe and dependable freight service that keeps island communities connected.” Mr Terry said.
The milestone comes as BIL prepares for the scheduled routine maintenance of the John Duigan in August this year.
BIL will provide its regular weekly service using an interim charter vessel the Investigator II, for up to eight weeks, before the John Duigan returns to service in October.
“These essential works will ensure the John Duigan continues to operate safely and reliably for our King Island customers and community, into the future,” Mr Terry said.
A digital press kit is available via: https://robburnettimages.client-gallery.com/gallery/tasports-john-duigan-2026