REMOVAL operations for sunken TasPorts tug Campbell Cove continued today (Tuesday) following the recovery of York Cove on the weekend.
Preparatory works for the second of two lifts commenced yesterday, overseen by TasPorts’ insurer Shipowners and salvor United Salvage, with support from TasPorts.
The lift began on Tuesday with the flexibility to carry the work over into Wednesday if required, as the removal of York Cove over the weekend was a slow, steady and complex exercise.
“Much of yesterday was focussed on finalising the safe landing of the York Cove into the cradles on board the AAL Melbourne to the satisfaction of the vessel’s Master for a sea voyage,” he said.
Mr Casey said the decision was influenced by complexities experienced during the lift of York Cove on Sunday. He said Campbell Cove presents its own unique set of challenges.
“The first lift was made complex by a series of factors including lifting methodology, weather and river currents that have been affected by recent rain, and the condition of the wrecks themselves in the water,” he said.
“Further, due to the damage to the York Cove and suspected warping of the hull from the allision, there have been complexities associated with its positioning onto the specially constructed cradle that is sitting on the AAL Melbourne.”
Mr Casey said the the Campbell Cove wreck was wedged between the wharf and the wreck of the York Cove, meaning divers were not able to inspect the extent of the damage. However, TasPorts knows the damage is significant.
“It is also sitting in an unbalanced position,” Mr Casey said.
“A pre-lift will likely be required to move the wreck into an upright position that will make the full lifting operation much safer.
“In planning and executing the second lift, just as was the case with the first lift, our insurer the Shipowners Club, United Salvage, TasPorts and the operators of the AAL Melbourne will be working to manage the safety of all personnel involved in the salvage operation and those working on and around the Port of Devonport.”
Mr Casey said the two cranes lifting Campbell Cove will be operating from a floating ship, adding to the complexity of the operation.
“Allowing the wreck to dewater or drain what is largely sea water, mud and silt is also important. This will be happening in the containment area in case there is any oil or diesel in that waste.”
TasPorts said York Cove and Campbell Cove will be will be welded to cradles on the deck of AAL Melbourne for transport to a salvage yard in Brisbane dedicated to scrapping maritime assets.
