Collaborating on marine vessel traffic technologies

In a busy port, there are few jobs more important than overseeing the safe and efficient movement of vessels and the safety, security and resilience of Tasmania’s coastal waterways.

TasPorts Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) works to enhance navigational safety by interacting with shipping to provide information on potential traffic conflicts and other navigational safety information and to minimise the risk of maritime incidents.

It was great to host the AMSA National VTS Advisory Group this week with discussion focussing on a national template for on-the-job training for VTS, development of a complementary audit tool for VTS providers to assist in preparing and maintaining certifications and new and upcoming IALA guidelines and recommendations.

With TasPorts VTS responsibilities spread across 14 geographical locations, we have a wider area than most of our mainland compatriots. Accordingly, there was a significant amount of interest in the procedures and systems TasPorts has in place to manage such a broad footprint.

Over the two days, the group engaged in productive discussions on emerging technologies that could have an impact on VTS, such as Marine Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), changes in hydrographic surveying and charts and other new and emerging technologies in the marine and VTS space. A workshop on the new IALA VTS Training guidelines was also presented by AMC Search.

The meeting was well attended with VTS Managers/Deputy Harbour Masters in person from Flinders Ports, Pilbara Port Authority (both Port Hedland and Dampier), Ports Victoria (both Geelong and Melbourne), Queensland – MSQ, Fremantle, and online representation from NSW Port Authority. AMSA had three representatives as the Competent Authority for Australia and leading the National Advisory Group and two representatives from the Australian Hydrographic Office were also in attendance.

Click here for more information : Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) (tasports.com.au)