PILBARA Ports have issued a series of warnings on 13 and 14 October ranging from whale strike reporting to safe use of towing and mooring equipment.

The notices are for Varanus Island, Port of Ashburton and Port of Dampier.

One of the notices warns that while ship designs, especially the design of large ships, has resulted in optimized performance this hasn’t extended to the design of ships’ mooring arrangements.

“Pilbara Ports has investigated several incidences where mooring equipment has been used for towing, resulting in damage to ship and the high potential for injury to people,” the notice said.

It outlines a series of rules and regulations to ensure safe towing and mooring practices.

Notices for the Port of Varanus Island, Port of Dampier and Port of Ashburton also included engine power limitations.

“Pilbara Port has seen an increase of ME slowdowns, restrictions in RPM increase from ships when required. Contributing cause, is a lack of understanding of operators within the port around engine power limitations.

“The reason for installation of Engine Power Limitations, is the shipping industry’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions/carbon intensity targets outlined by the International Maritime Organizations (IMO’s) revised strategy on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from ships.”

Another notice warns of whale collisions and steps that should be taken to avoid them.

“Whales and other marine fauna susceptible to vessel collisions are protected under both Commonwealth and State legislation. The Western Australian coastline is a known migration route for the Western Australian Humpback whale population.

“Humpback whales pass through Varanus Island port waters as they migrate from their Southern Ocean feeding grounds to their tropical breeding grounds in the Kimberley. The migration occurs annually between June and November.

“The presence of whales in relatively shallow port waters limits their ability to avoid vessels, significantly increasing the risk of collisions between vessels and whales. All vessel masters are required to maintain a safe distance from whales, 100 metres on either side and 300 metres in front or behind.”

Vessels were also warned to watch out for the installation of a temporary seabed logger off Varanus Island.

“Mariners and port users are advised that a temporary mooring and seabed weight has been installed on 3 September 2024, east of Varanus Island.

“Its position is: 20°39.18’ S/115°35.01’, about 300m ENE of the East Wharf (WGS84). Colour of Buoy: Large Black Pearl Float with red reflective tape and small yellow float. Light Characteristics: Not lit. Visibility Range: ~100m This mooring is a temporary installation and deployed in support of a scientific study. Mariners are advised to avoid the area unless engaged in planned mooring maintenance or recovery activity. The mooring will be deployed for ~35 days.”

There is also a notice about dredging at the Port of Dampier at the Dampier Bulk Handling Facility (‘DBHF’) project area, on sailing routes and the East Lewis Island spoil ground.

Vessels involved in the dredging operations are dredge BHD Baldur, supported by barges BLA Endeavour and BKA Resolution, shifted by tugs Molly Grace, Cape Arid and other support vessels.

“A ‘Sécurité’ message will be broadcast daily by the Dampier VTS detailing the area of operation of the dredging and support vessels. Project vessels will maintain listening watch on VHF channels 11 and 16.

“Mariners should navigate with caution in the vicinity of the dredging operation.”