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 vessels to sink.
TasPorts responded quickly, deploying oil spill response equipment, and activating its crisis response teams. TasPorts has continued to actively monitor 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.
Key Updates:
- Following the closure of the tender for the removal of the wrecks from the site at Devonport 3 West on 13 February 2022, TasPorts is continuing to work with insurance representatives to finalise arrangements for a Salvage Contractor to complete the wreck removal activity.
- Due to the complexity of the wreck site, with two vessels in such a fragile state, significant due diligence is being taken in reviewing tender proposals to ensure minimal impact to the environment and port operations, whilst the salvage is being undertaken. Through this process, the safety and environmental protection of the methodology has been thoroughly considered, as well as the timeframe for removal.
- On Monday 28 February 2022, Bass Island Line vessel John Duigan successfully undertook a voyage into the new roll-on-roll-off (RORO) ramp at Devonport 5 West. Consideration for the movement was given, due to the size specifications of the vessel, at 80m LOA with a draft of 3.6 metres. A thorough risk assessment was undertaken, which saw a number of controls and restrictions in place for its arrival and departure. Following the success of this movement, it has provided the opportunity for TasPorts to further explore smaller commercial vessel movements with the appropriate risk assessments in place, into Berth 5 West. As this continues, further updates will be provided.
- TasPorts is committed to supporting the continuity of shipping and is working with its customers to explore alternative berthing arrangements within the Port of Devonport.
- Following a review of available tug assets, TasPorts is pleased to confirm Svitzer Bondi
will be joining its north-west marine fleet on charter arrangement in the coming week. The vessel is scheduled to depart New South Wales on Friday 4 March 2022, with arrival anticipated for next week. The arrival of this vessel will support ongoing shipping and safety requirements at the Port of Devonport.
- For all enquiries related to this incident moving forward, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au