Port of Hobart icon set for final departure from Princess Wharf

TasPorts is preparing to say its final farewell to Australia’s icebreaker RSV Aurora Australis after more than 30 years of calling the Port of Hobart home.

Posted

11 December 2020

At 9.00am on Saturday 12 December 2020, the P&O owned vessel will depart the port for Dubai, to start its next chapter. TasPorts Chief Executive Officer Anthony Donald said farewelling the vessel will be bittersweet.

“The ‘Orange Roughy’ has been a feature of Sullivan’s Cove for more than 30 years, completing resupply voyages from the Port of Hobart during the Antarctic season, and laying up at Princes Wharf during the winter months,” he said.

“During its time in Hobart, the vessel has completed more than 150 scientific research and resupply voyages to Antarctic and sub-Antarctic stations.

“Whilst we’re saying goodbye to the iconic vessel, its departure also signals the upcoming arrival of Australian Antarctic Division’s (AAD) new icebreaker RSV Nuyina and highlights the growth and importance of Antarctic research for the state of Tasmania.”

Earlier this week TasPorts announced a five-year agreement with the AAD, as a critical next step in ensuring the realisation of a dedicated Antarctic precinct at the Port of Hobart.

“TasPorts is committed to ensuring the Port of Hobart continues to actively support the Tasmanian Antarctic Gateway Strategy, to build Tasmania’s reputation as the gateway to east Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. It’s an exciting future” Mr Donald said.

Pictures courtesy: Australian Antarctic Division. March 2020.

IMG 7148
20200325 AA Final Arrival HBT 2
IMG 7156