The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has released its preliminary investigation report into the collision between the bulk carrier Silver Yang and the yacht, Ella's Pink Lady.
The report contains factual information gathered to date, as part of the investigation process.
ATSB investigators last met with the skipper of Ella's Pink Lady on 9 October 2009, prior to her departure on her round-the-world voyage.
The ATSB investigation is ongoing and will focus on several specific areas including:
- the electronic detectability of the yacht
- the lookout being kept on board both vessels
- adherence to the International Regulations for the Prevention of Collisions at Sea (COLREGS)
- collision risk assessment
- actions taken following the collision.
Since Silver Yang was enroute to China, ATSB investigators were unable to attend the vessel. However, the Hong Kong Marine Department has assisted the investigation by collecting and providing a range of material from the ship, including statements from the master and involved crew.
The final report is unlikely to be available for several months. Should any critical safety issues emerge that require urgent attention, the ATSB will immediately bring such issues to the attention of the relevant parties who are best placed to take prompt action to address those issues.
Once completed, the investigation report will be published on the ATSB website.
Media conference talking notes [PDF 80 kb
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Audio of media conference [MP3 audio 1500 kb]