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 a thorough assessment process with insurers, TasPorts is pleased to confirm that United Salvage is the preferred contractor to undertake the wreck removal from Berth 3 West. United Salvage has commenced mobilisation of plant and equipment and all parties are working through the detailed work schedule and operating plans. Once all plans are confirmed TasPorts will provide advice with respect to the easing of existing restrictions on Berths 4 and 5 West (as detailed in Harbour Master Instruction #22-14). TasPorts will continue to keep customers and stakeholders updated as this progresses.
- Following the John Duigan’s successful trial voyage into 5 West last week, TasPorts is now in a position to consider movement requests for vessels of a similar nature into this berth (LOA 80m). Requests will be subject to a risk assessment by the Harbour Master and the application of appropriate controls, such as restrictions on arrival and departure times and supporting marine services.
- Whilst the incident site (at Berth 3W) is currently stable, the ongoing risk of an environmental disaster is significant, with approximately 10,000 litres of inaccessible diesel and oil remaining in structurally unsound wrecks sitting on the river floor. This is evidenced by a continual release of oil pollution from within the wrecks that is being managed with daily skimming operations and contained within an oil spill containment boom. The EPA has advised the oil spill boom footprint is appropriate to manage the existing oil spill risk and any potential uncontrolled oil spill risk.
- On Sunday 6 March 2022, a new towage vessel Svitzer Bondi arrived at the Port of Devonport. Bondi is 23-metres in length, with a bollard pull of 47-tonnes. TasPorts marine crews are now undertaking familiarisation with the vessel, which will include supporting a number of vessel movements in and out of the port over the coming weeks. This vessel is a modern and reliable addition to the fleet, which will suit the unique environment at the Port.
- For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au