Incident Update - 05 August 2022

Incident summary:

On Friday 28 January 2022, cement carrier Goliath collided with two berthed TasPorts’ tugs at the Port of Devonport (York Cove and Campbell Cove). The impact of the collision caused significant damage to the tugs, ultimately causing both to sink.

TasPorts quickly deployed oil spill response equipment and activated its crisis response teams. TasPorts has actively monitored the incident site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week since the collision, with a focus on ensuring the integrity of the oil spill containment area and the salvage of hydrocarbons from the wrecks. These activities continue to be supported by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

Updates:

• The heavy lift ship AAL Melbourne has been engaged by United Salvage (salvor) to undertake the removal of the York Cove and Campbell Cove wrecked tugs from the Mersey River.
• The first attempt to lift the first of the wrecks – York Cove – will occur on Sunday (7 August) subject to weather conditions.
• The AAL Melbourne (which has been in Burnie to collect the tug cradles that were initially constructed for the Intan receiving barge) will travel to anchorage on Saturday (6 August) evening before heading to Devonport on Sunday first thing for the removal works.
• The AAL Melbourne will pick up one tug at a time, lift them clear of the water and lower them into the specially constructed cradles.
• Timing of the second lift (Campbell Cove) is yet to be finalised, but is likely to be on Monday (8 August), again weather conditions permitting.
• For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au