Fuel barge likely option to refuel Australian Antarctic Division icebreaker RSV Nuyina in Hobart
When the RSV Nuyina was not allowed to refuel in Hobart, it caused headaches for the Australian Antarctic Division. But there might be a solution to the problem.
Tasmania
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A review into refuelling the Australian Antarctic Divisions’ icebreaker RSV Nuyina in Hobart has indicated a fuel barge as a suitable option.
The state government has conducted a feasibility study into refuelling options for the Nuyina in Hobart after TasPorts denied the vessel transit under the Tasman Bridge to refuel at Selfs Point earlier this year.
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said the review to examine prospects for a fuel barge solution to service the Port of Hobart was completed by the Department of State Growth.
“The review indicates that a fuel barge could be a suitable refuelling solution for the Port of Hobart and notes that the participation of the Australian Antarctic Division would be critical for the successful introduction and ongoing viability of a fuel barge,” he said.
“We look forward to continuing engagement with the AAD in regard to this matter.”
In a submission to a senate inquiry investigating budget cuts at the AAD, the Premier wrote the need for a fuel barge has been raised following the arrival of the Nuyina.
“Evidence suggests a fuel barge has the potential to attract new port users, optimise existing port efficiencies and bring with it broader economic and social benefits,” he wrote.
It comes as the AAD’s head Emma Campbell said she expects Nuyina will continue to refuel at Burnie throughout the summer season at a senate inquiry hearing on Thursday evening.
“I understand from Tasmanian officials that a feasibility study into alternative options is very close to being finalised and with the premier within days if not already with the premier,” she said.
“I expect fuel barges will be a feature but I have not seen the options.”
Meanwhile, she said the division is working closely with TasPorts to find a permanent berth for Nuyina.
“(Macquarie) wharf six isn’t suitable for loading cargo and so that is a safety concern. It can have a little Hilux, but it can’t have the big cargo weight that we need to have to load the Nuyina,” she said.
“At the moment we are managing that by using wharf 3. Our preference is that we have a dedicated wharf that we can use for Nuyina and we are working with TasPorts to that end.”
In a letter submitted to the senate inquiry, TasPorts chief executive Anthony Donald said the Macquarie Wharf Redevelopment Project is integral to developing a permanent berth for RSV Nuyina.
“TasPorts also remains committed to delivering on the Australian Government’s immediate priority being the upgrade of Wharf 6 to provide the RSV Nuyina with a working wharf throughout the season and lay-up berth when not at sea,” he wrote.
“The upgrades to Wharves 4 and 5 will follow to ensure further support for polar and research programs, defence support and additional commercial opportunities.”
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Originally published as Fuel barge likely option to refuel Australian Antarctic Division icebreaker RSV Nuyina in Hobart
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