North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation(NQBP) announced that, as a result of Tropical Cyclone Debbie, the ports of Mackay, Hay Point and Abbot Point have been closed. NQBP assured that is working with port users, tenants, operators, emergency services and Maritime Safety Queensland to ensure all cyclone preparedness plans are completed.
NQBP Chief Executive Officer, Steve Lewis, later said that first reports, including from terminal operators, indicate the ports have stood up well to the extreme weather challenges posed by Cyclone Debbie.
“As you would expect, there has been some damage from debris and flood water,” Mr Lewis said. “But we have not received reports of significant damage at this time.”
Mr Lewis added that from March 30th, NQBP will start clean-up work and more detailed assessment of infrastructure located at the Port of Mackay.
“Marine Safety Queensland has given the ‘okay’ to vessels off the Ports of Hay Point and Abbot Point to return to anchorage from the outer reef,” Mr Lewis said. “However, the next step is for seabed surveys to be done and the Regional Harbour Masters to give the all clear before vessels will be permitted to return to the navigational channels, berth pockets and wharves at the ports of Abbot Point, Hay Point and Mackay.
The seabed surveys, at the Port of Abbot Point, found no obstructions or issues with the berths and aprons. NQBP informed that further surveys will be conducted tomorrow in regard to the port’s departure paths.
“Re-opening of the coal terminals at the Ports of Hay Point and Abbot Point will be a decision made by the private businesses that operate those terminals. We remain in the midst of a severe weather event and the impacts of this type of event can
be unpredictable” concluded Mr Lewis.
Source & Image credit: NQBP