Safety Issue
The queue of 57 ships off Newcastle on 7 June 2007 increased the
risk of collisions, groundings and other difficulties in the
subsequent heavy weather. Capacity allocations systems have proved
effective in reducing the queue in the past and, consequently,
reduced the risks to ships, the port and the environment. The
significant public benefit of enhanced safety that results from a
reduced queue had not been identified or recognised during the
application process for the authorisation of these allocation
systems.
Safety Recommendation
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau recommends that Port
Waratah Coal Services, individually and as a member of the Hunter
Valley Coal Chain Logistics Team, take action to address this
safety issue.