Incident Update - 22 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 continues to assess the status of the incident site to determine any changes to restrictions as early as practicable.

Updates:

• Revised operating arrangements are now in place at the Port of Devonport to accommodate the arrival of larger vessels at berths 4 and 5 West.
• Changes were made to the Harbour Master’s Instruction following a comprehensive marine risk assessment of the wreck site and contamination area (including simulations conducted at the Australian Maritime College).
• The Harbour Master has determined that vessels requesting to berth at either berths 4 West or 5 West will be assessed on a case-by-case basis (and as pollution response and salvage operations permit).
• As a result of the change, the 185m Nord Mirai is scheduled to arrive on Monday, 25 July 2022 carrying petroleum.
• TasPorts will continue to prioritise commercial ship visits to the port.
• Meantime the insurer and salvage company are continuing to work on arrangements for the complex salvage operation including operational planning for multiple options to ensure the wrecks are removed as soon as safely and as practicably feasible.
• For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au