Port of Brisbane provides updates on flood response efforts

Photo: Port of Brisbane (file)

Port of Brisbane (PBPL) has provided updates on its efforts in response to ongoing heavy flooding in Queensland.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, March 1, PBPL said the Regional Harbour Master (RHM) has advised that the port remains closed to all ship movements at present, due to the inherent risks from water velocity and the potential for debris including sunken objects and siltation build-up in the port’s swing basins, berth pockets and channel.

PBPL added that it is working closely with the RHM to deploy survey vessels to determine safe depth of the navigational areas as well as possible debris obstruction. The speed of the river current and turbidity at the moment is proving challenging in this regard, said PBPL interim CEO Neil Stephens.

Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) and the state government are coordinating multiple salvage teams to remove any debris. PBPL will deploy its dredger and barge fleet to assist, focusing on the port precincts.

Mr Stephens said the RHM is continuing to assess the situation on an ongoing, case-by-case basis, with the aim of reopening the port as soon as it is safe to do so.

Mr Stephens emphasised that “safety must come first” given the severe conditions occurring on the water as well as the broader road network within the state.


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