Incident Update - 06 July 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).

TasPorts is continuing to assess the status of the incident site, to determine any changes to restrictions as early as practicable.

Updates:

• The St Vincent’s journey to Tasmania has been impacted by severe weather conditions including strong to gale force winds off the east coast of Australia: Marine Wind Warning Summary (bom.gov.au)
• Late yesterday the Master of the tug towing the St Vincent advised that the weather in Trial Bay (where they had been sheltering) was deteriorating.
• The Master recommended sailing north to Yamba for shelter, but one-and-a-half-metre to two-metre swells prevented entry to the port.
• The action taken reflects the prioritisation of the safety of people and marine assets.
• The tug and barge are now proceeding back to Brisbane.
• TasPorts will communicate the revised departure date when set.
• Once underway again, the weather-dependent voyage will take between seven to 10 days to complete.
• The salvage operation will commence as soon as possible after the barge’s arrival and completion of a successful test lift.
• Salvage crew personnel will mobilise to Devonport in time for the St Vincent arrival.
• Importantly, and as noted in previous updates, the wreck of the York Cove remains rigged and ready for lifting once the St Vincent arrives.
• Commercial shipping continues to be prioritised at the Port of Devonport. Arrangements for shipping at the port remain unchanged – agents can submit booking requests through the normal channel.
• TasPorts’ commercial team is directly engaging with customers to facilitate ship visits to the port.
• For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au.