Incident Update - 17 June 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:

• As noted in last week’s update, before departing Brisbane for Devonport to assist in the salvage of the tug wrecks from the Mersey River, the 60-metre-long crane barge St Vincent will need to successfully complete a test lift.
• Further, after the consultant lift engineer advised that a rigging modification was required before the lift could be undertaken, additional rigging equipment has been ordered and will be on site today (Friday 17 June).
• The test lift is scheduled for Saturday (18 June).
• The crane barge owner, Foreshore Marine, has advised that it has confirmation from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) that the certificate of operation and survey have been met.
• Once the test lift has been performed, all survey requirements will have been completed and the barge can depart.
• A departure date for the St Vincent is still to be determined, but if the lift is successful, it is planned for early next week.
• In the meantime, arrangements for shipping at the Port of Devonport remain unchanged – agents can submit booking requests through the normal channel.
• Also, TasPorts’ commercial team is directly engaging with customers to facilitate ship visits to the Port of Devonport.
• For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au