14/10/2022 03:29 PM
A special Parliamentary event was hosted by NSW Transport Minister David Elliott yesterday to recognize the heroic actions of key organisations involved in the rescuing of MV Portland Bay off Sydney during a major storm event in July.
Port Authority of New South Wales CEO Captain Philip Holliday said it was humbling to receive the commendations from the Minister but he was incredibly proud of the swift and courageous response of Port Authority’s Marine Operations teams’ together with those from Svitzer and Engage Marine involved in this challenging incident.
“Protecting people and the environment was at the heart of every decision throughout this operation, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved for their outstanding work, that went above and beyond, under truly atrocious weather conditions,” Captain Holliday said.
“Port Authority’s Vessel Traffic Service staff were critical in quickly identifying the potential event unfolding on 4 July off Royal National Park and triggered the rapid response.
“As Incident Controllers of this marine event, Port Authority led and coordinated the response that saw all key agencies working side by side to deliver an extraordinary emergency response.
“I’m so proud of what our staff achieved as we demonstrated just how the maritime industry is able to display its agility, expertise and composure to protect life, property and our environment.”
“There were some very long and hard days but all involved delivered in time of great need with a selfless approach to bring the MV Portland Bay and its crew safely into Port Botany for repairs.”
Captain Holliday added it also shows our preparedness for emergency incident response and how everyone’s collective efforts working as one resulted in this successful operation.
“I would particularly like to acknowledge the heroic efforts of the towage crews who worked in extreme sea conditions day and night to keep all aboard MV Portland Bay safe.
“The professionalism and skill of the mariners involved were on display for the world to see in appalling conditions.”
The Port Authority of New South Wales also extends appreciation to all agencies involved including the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), Engage Towage, Svitzer Australia, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters and Surf Lifesaving NSW, NSW Ports and the port community at Port Botany, Transport for NSW, NSW Police, Marine Area Command, NSW Environment Protection Authority, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Environment and Heritage, State Emergency Operations Centre, the Regional Emergency Management Office and, of course, the team at Port Authority of NSW.
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