FROM THIS SATURDAY ship owners and operators can access more competition for towage services in the port of Brisbane when Smit Lamnalco resumes towage in its own right, alongside its co-operation agreement with Svitzer.
Phil Vine, SL’s contract manager for Port Botany and Brisbane, confirmed SL will restart direct towage operations in the Queensland capital, with a ‘go live date’ of 0001hrs this Saturday 26 October. This activates a move presaged when SL re-entered Port Botany towage in its own right in March.
“We have been working closely with MSQ, Port of Brisbane and Svitzer to ensure a smooth transition of towage services,” Mr Vine said in a letter to customers.
“At Smit Lamnalco we understand the unique challenges of maritime operations and the importance of timely and professional service. Our experienced crews are trained to handle various situations, ensuring the highest safety and efficiency standards.”
SL will deploy two tugs, the 70-tonne bollard pull, FiFi 1 SL Awoonga and the 65-tonne bollard pull, FiFi ½ SL Fitzroy. SL Awoonga and sister SL Targinnie have been replaced at Gladstone by two more powerful tugs, SL Lulu and SL Murjan, freeing SL Awoonga for Brisbane and SL Targinnie shortly for Port Botany.
“Smit Lamnaclo are excited to be resuming towage operations in Brisbane and look forward to meeting with you and working together to support your vessel towage needs,” Mr Vine told customers.
