At approximately 0700 on Thursday 22 June, the Australian
Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) received a report of a possible
collision between and cargo ship and a fishing vessel off the north
coast of NSW in the early hours of 21 June.
A crew member of the fishing vessel was picked up last night
after spending 18 hours in a dingy. There is still one crew member
missing and AusSar have a search in progress using 6 helicopters
and 3 fixed wing aircraft. Some wreckage has been recovered.
The ATSB has sent 2 investigators to the north coast of NSW to
commence an investigation.
In accordance with ATSB procedures, all reports and
recommendations arising from this investigation will be scrutinised
by a review panel consisting of senior ATSB management.
Prior to the review panel's final scrutiny, the standard process
where Interested Parties have the opportunity to comment on the
draft report will occur to ensure fairness and accuracy.