Incident Update - 27 May 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 is continuing to assess the status of the incident site, to determine any changes to restrictions as early as practicable.

Updates:

• The 55-metre-long receiving barge, the Intan, has arrived at the Port of Devonport in preparation for the removal of the York Cove and Campbell Cove tugs from the Mersey River.
• The 60-metre-long lifting barge St Vincent, which is in Brisbane, has not been able to leave the Queensland port because of swell conditions.
• United Salvage – the Australian company appointed to recover the tug wrecks – is in constant contact with TasPorts and will update the company on the barge’s departure details as soon as they are finalised.
• In the meantime, the tugs are ready for the eventual lift.
• Salvors and members of the dive team have completed the installation of horizontal restraining wire slings for both tug wrecks.
• The crane barge will pick up one tug at a time, lift them clear of the water and lower them into a specially constructed cradle on the receiving barge.
• The tugs will be sea fastened and transported to Bell Bay for disposal.
• For all enquiries related to this incident, please contact DevonportWest@tasports.com.au