Cargo emergency; bulk carrier takes on water off Queensland coast

Plans are under way to salvage the remains of a bulk carrier that began taking on water in the engine room off the coast of Mackay.

Plans are under way to salvage the remains of a bulk carrier that began taking on water in the engine room off the coast of Mackay.

The Frontier Unity, sailing under the flag of Panama, was en route from the Netherlands to Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal at Hay Point, south of Mackay, when it lost electrical power on Tuesday morning.

Maritime Safety Queensland general manager Kell Dillon said the power loss caused the pumps to stop working.

It is understood the carrier, with 24 crew on board, took on 7m of water in the engine room as a result.

Helicopter crews were on standby Tuesday evening, as tugs were deployed from Hay Point to the ship’s location near Prudhoe Island.

“The situation has been stabilised with the ingress of water significantly reduced by temporary repairs,” Mr Dillon said.

“The ship remained overnight in its current position 14 nautical miles east of Hay Point with two tugs in attendance as a contingency.”

Mr Dillon said there were no reports of marine pollution, but there was equipment and personnel on standby if required.

“A salvor has been appointed by the ship’s owner, and representatives are on board developing a full recovery plan,” he said.

“Proposed recovery plans will be reviewed and endorsed by regulatory bodies, including MSQ and AMSA.”

The ship is understood to be 11 years old and has a 92,000 tonne carrying capacity.

“An incident management team has been established by MSQ under the leadership of the Regional Harbour Master.

“Ports of Mackay, Hay Point and Dalrymple Bay were temporarily closed to allow additional tug resourcing to the incident but reopened (Tuesday) night.

“MSQ is leading the response, with QPS, QFES, GBRMPA and AMSA advised and supporting.”

Originally published as Cargo emergency; bulk carrier takes on water off Queensland coast