A GALE warning has been issued by the WA Bureau of Meteorology, forcing vessels at the Port of Fremantle without a berthing schedule to head to sea.

The warning is current from 22 to 25 August.

A notice to shipping agents from the port said adverse weather would affect the Perth coast, Perth Local waters and Lancelin coast. This warning is followed by further adverse weather anticipated during the weekend.

“To ensure good risk management during the adverse weather and in the interests of port, terminal infrastructure and vessel safety, the following will be implemented in preparation for the adverse weather,” the statement said.

“Vessels at the FPA Inner anchorages – Gage Roads / ORAN / ORA which do not have a berthing schedule during the adverse weather period will be required to proceed to sea. All charges for pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account. Fremantle Ports scheduling team will advise specific vessels accordingly.

“Vessels at anchor in Outer anchorages are advised to heave anchor and proceed to sea for the period of impact.

“All vessels alongside Outer Harbour Terminals will be required to evacuate their respective berths in the order scheduled by the Fremantle Ports’ schedulers, in preparation for the adverse weather. All charges for unberthing / berthing pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account. Vessels will return to berth when weather conditions improve.

“Considering the direction of impact from the forecast winds, certain vessels may be permitted to remain alongside berths in the Inner Harbour.

“Preparations for the adverse weather have commenced on Wednesday – 21 August 2024. The above conditions will cease to apply once the weather conditions improve.

“All vessels evacuating from the port are required to stay well clear of Fremantle Ports’ approaches and the surrounding coastal areas.”

The wild weather is also disrupting landside logistics with one of the major empty container parks, Tyne/AFCS which is reporting extended delays in truck servicing due to the weather.

A notice sent to clients said the company would endeavour to service trucks when safe to do so.

Industrial Action announced earlier in the week remains scheduled to commence at 5.30am Sunday 25 August for a period of 48 hours.