Australian officials are closely monitoring a disabled LPG carrier near Melbourne, ensuring the safety of the crew and the environment. The vessel, named Bougainville, lost its propeller while inbound from Vanuatu and has been moved to a sheltered anchorage while arrangements are made. Despite the situation, the ship has become a local tourist attraction.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) reported that the vessel sheered off its propeller during pre-arrival engine testing. An emergency vessel was sent to rescue the LPG tanker, which was initially drifting near Seal Rocks. After being towed to a safer position, the Bougainville was moved to a more sheltered anchorage at Cowes south of Melbourne for repairs.
The Bougainville, owned by Hiyoshi Shipping Co. and managed by Oceangas, is loaded with LPG and has a capacity for 5,000 cbm. The ship’s operators are currently seeking a facility capable of undertaking the extensive repairs needed to fix the propeller. The vessel is one of several gas carriers used to supply Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific islands.
