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 these updates previously, the arrival in Tasmania from Brisbane of the 60-metre-long crane barge St Vincent has been delayed, first by weather and then because the barge owner was required to finalise AMSA certification of operation and survey, including the requirement to successfully complete a lift test.
- For context, this is highly specialised equipment that operates in complex environments. TasPorts has required all certifications and checks to be in place before the St Vincent departs Brisbane to limit the risk of delays once it arrives and starts working in the Port of Devonport.
- The barge’s departure was further delayed this week by software and technical issues with the main winch.
- These issues have now been addressed, and final preparations for the test lift are underway.
- Following a successful test lift, and sign off by AMSA, the St Vincent will depart for Devonport, a seven to 10 day trip (depending on weather conditions).
- The salvage operation will commence as soon as possible after the barge’s arrival.
- Salvage crew personnel are ready to re-mobilise to Devonport once the St Vincent departs Brisbane.
- 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