The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) has launched an investigation into a serious marine incident off the coast of New South Wales after a bulk carrier experienced a propulsion failure and drifted dangerously close to land on July 30, 2025.
Vessel Drifts Toward Shore Before Recovery
The incident occurred about 20 miles offshore when the ship’s main engine suddenly failed, leaving it without propulsion. Over the course of several hours, the vessel drifted closer to the coastline, coming within three miles of shore by late afternoon. At this stage, the master informed local vessel traffic services of the situation and requested permission to anchor. Fortunately, the crew managed to restart the main engine in time, allowing the ship to regain control and steer clear of immediate danger.
Investigation into Mechanical and Emergency Response
After safely docking in Newcastle on August 7, ATSB investigators boarded the vessel to gather evidence, including crew interviews and a review of technical records. The inquiry will not only assess the root cause of the propulsion failure but also examine how effectively the crew and coastal authorities coordinated during the emergency.
ATSB has emphasized that if any urgent safety issues are identified, relevant stakeholders will be promptly informed so corrective measures can be taken.
This investigation highlights the risks posed by propulsion failures near coastal waters and underlines the importance of robust emergency response protocols. Findings from the ATSB’s ongoing inquiry are expected to provide critical safety insights aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
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Source: FAN
