Port of Brisbane issues guidance on reopening of berths following recent flooding

Port of Brisbane (PBPL) interim CEO Neil Stephens said that, following the success of initial vessel movements on Thursday, March 3, the Regional Harbour Master (RHM) has advised that the process of gradually reopening berths in a safe manner continues.

A priority will be placed on departing vessels moored at Fisherman Islands when it’s safe to do so.

“We will see a small number of such movements,” Mr Stephens said in a statement on Friday, March 4. “Berths upstream present higher risk outcomes presently, due to water velocity and more debris in the navigational areas.”

PBPL survey teams and vessels are actively checking each berth and (if necessary) conducting salvage/debris removal of the vacated berth pockets at FI.

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) is coordinating all debris removal in the Brisbane navigation areas and further upstream. This will continue throughout the weekend to ensure the port is brought back to a safe operational status as soon as possible.

The RHM will then progressively schedule vessels at anchorage to move into the pilotage areas and transit to the port precincts.

Arriving vessels are starting at Fisherman Islands on a risk-based assessment by the RHM. These vessels’ movements will operate under specific criteria communicated to waterside stakeholders by the RHM.

“It is important for all stakeholders to note that as river conditions improve, and the velocity of the river current slows, its likely more debris could settle in and around port infrastructure,” added Mr Stephens. “The task of identifying that debris and removing it is critically important, and therefore a top priority.”