December 2021
There were 85 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in December 2021. Of these, 25 were serious and 1 very serious.
STATE | VESSEL TYPE | INCIDENT |
WA | Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) | Very Serious: Vessel collided with reef and sustained significant hull damage. The vessel was evacuated and later sank. |
NSW | Class 1 - Passenger | Passenger jumped overboard while vessel was underway. The passenger was recovered without injury. |
NSW | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel lost main engine following fuel issues. No damage or injuries reported. |
NSW | Class 1 - Passenger | Passenger jumped overboard while vessel was underway. The passenger was recovered and required medical attention. |
NSW | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel collided with a sailing catamaran while underway. Significant damage sustained. |
NSW | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Acetylene bottle caught fire onboard. The vessel was evacuated. No injuries or pollution reported. |
NSW | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel collided with an open bridge. Damage sustained to vessel’s mast and rigging. |
NSW | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel collided with rowing boat while underway. The person onboard the rowing boat fell overboard and required medivac. |
NSW | Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) | Passenger fell overboard while fishing. The passenger was recovered without injury. |
QLD | Class 1 - Passenger | Passenger fell overboard while disembarking vessel. The passenger was recovered with minor injuries. |
QLD | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel’s dory capsized during snorkelling operation. Four passengers fell overboard and were recovered without injury. |
QLD | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel collided with wharf following steering failure. No damage or pollution reported. |
QLD | Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) | Vessel’s hatch cover fell from an open position during fishing operation. A crew member sustained head laceration and arm fracture. |
QLD | Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) | Vessel collided with another vessel. No damage or pollution reported. |
QLD | Class 4 - Hire 'N' Drive | Vessel made contact with reef. Minor damage sustained. |
TAS | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel grounded during strong weather conditions. Damage sustained to vessel’s propellers. |
NT | Class 1 - Passenger | Crew member sustained hand injury while setting up compressed air hose. Medivac required. |
NT | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel’s bow door separated from vessel. Investigation underway. |
NT | Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) | Vessel's fixed fire fighting system suffered an electrical fault and caught fire. The fire was extinguished by crew. |
WA | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel collided with a docked vessel during strong weather conditions. Minor damage sustained. |
WA | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel collided with a passenger vessel while underway. No damage or injuries reported. |
WA | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel's port outboard engine caught fire. The fire was extinguished by crew. Repairs completed. |
ACT | Class 1 - Passenger | Passenger jumped overboard while the vessel was berthing. No injuries reported. |
ACT | Class 1 - Passenger | Passenger tripped on door sill. The passenger sustained a dislocated shoulder and required medivac. |
SA | Class 1 - Passenger | Vessel made contact with submerged object. Damage sustained to propellers. |
SA | Class 2 - Non-Passenger | Vessel capsized after failure to remove the buoy line. Two persons fell overboard and were wearing life jackets. One person sustained leg bruising. |
- November 2021
There were 92 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in November 2021. Of these, 27 were serious.
STATE
VESSEL TYPE
INCIDENT
NSW
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel disabled following a serious electrical fault. Repairs are underway.
NSW
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger jumped overboard while vessel was underway. The passenger was recovered without injury.
NSW
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger fell overboard while boarding the vessel. The passenger sustained head injury and required hospitalisation.
NSW
Class 1 - Passenger
Child fell overboard without a lifejacket. Two additional passengers jumped overboard to retrieve the child. No injuries reported.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel capsized during mooring operation. Two crew members fell overboard without lifejackets. No injuries reported.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member tripped near the cockpit. The crew member sustained lacerations to shins & a fractured wrist.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with another vessel after the mooring lines snapped. Minor damage sustained to the vessel's fendering.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member’s hand was caught during mooring operation. The crew member sustained a crush injury and required medivac.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member fell overboard. The crew member was wearing a life jacket and recovered without injury.
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member’s hand was caught during mooring operation. The crew member sustained a severed finger and required medivac.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel grounded during strong weather conditions. No damage sustained.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel grounded following mooring failure. No damage sustained.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Crew member received electric shock during weekly maintenance activities. Crew member attended hospital for review.
QLD
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member slipped on ramp during unloading operation. Crew member sustained head laceration. No medivac required.
QLD
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel's port main engine caught fire. The fire was extinguished by crew. Investigation underway.
NT
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel collided with steel can buoy. Vessel sustained small tear in hull and flooding. Repairs underway.
NT
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel's battery exploded & fire ignited in the battery well. Fire was extinguished by crew. Investigation underway.
NT
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Crew member received electric shock while repairing flood lights. Crew member was transferred to hospital for review.
VIC
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger jumped overboard without a lifejacket. The passenger was shortly recovered without injury.
VIC
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger fell over and broke their ankle after the vessel encountered short sharp waves. No medivac required.
VIC
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel grounded during poor visibility. Vessel refloated without assistance.
WA
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger jumped overboard without a lifejacket. The passenger was shortly recovered without injury.
WA
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's door ripped off in poor weather conditions. Repairs underway.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel's tender capsized and submerged during strong weather conditions. Repairs underway.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with submerged object. Oily sheen in water observed. Investigation ongoing.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel grounded. Investigation underway.
WA
Class 4 - Hire 'N' Drive
Jet ski collided with another jet ski. The operator fell overboard. Significant damage sustained to jet ski.
- October 2021
There were 71 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in October 2021. Of these, 14 were serious.
State
Vessel type
Incident
NSW
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's engine room flooded while underway. Ingress located above water line. Investigation ongoing.
NSW
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Vessel's net reel detached from fastenings. Net reel and fishing gear lost overboard. No injuries reported.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's starboard engine gear failed while operating astern. Vessel collided with pontoon’s fendering. No damage or injuries reported.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel’s oven caught fire. A crew member sustained burns to their hands while extinguishing the flames.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel caught fire while moored. Suspected electrical fault. Investigation ongoing.
QLD
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel's refrigeration system ignited following an electrical fault. Fire extinguished by crew. No injuries reported.
QLD
Class 4 – Hire ‘N’ Drive
Passenger crushed finger in swim ladder. Passenger requires ongoing treatment for injuries.
NT
Class 1 - Passenger
Crew member bitten by a small crocodile during tour. The crew member required hospitalisation.
TAS
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel's cooling pump drive failed resulting in damage to the engine. Vessel was disabled and required tug assistance.
VIC
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with navigational marker while underway. Two crew members sustained injuries and required medivac.
VIC
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with kayak during poor visibility. No injuries reported.
WA
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's towline parted while towing a barge. Significant damage sustained to the vessel’s hull.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with a disabled yacht. Minor damage sustained. No injuries reported.
WA
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Vessel grounded after being hit by large wave. Two crew members sustained minor injuries.
- September 2021
There were 73 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in September 2021. Of these, 20 were serious.
State
Vessel Type
Incident
NSW
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with submerged rock while underway. Damage sustained to engines.
NSW
Class 4 - Hire 'N' Drive
Vessel collided with houseboat and tender due to strong weather conditions. Investigation ongoing.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's bollard and mooring lines failed. A crew member sustained a leg fracture and required medivac.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel made contact with seabed while berthing. The damage sustained has since been repaired.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Passenger lost footing while stepping onto the vessel. The passenger sustained an arm fracture.
QLD
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel's tender capsized during strong weather conditions. One crew member fell overboard and was wearing a lifejacket. No injuries reported.
QLD
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel grounded while underway. Minor damage sustained to hull.
QLD
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel collided with another vessel at anchor. Minor damage sustained.
TAS
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel’s sea water pump failed resulting in overheating in the engine room. Steam and smoke observed.
TAS
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member fell overboard while mooring. The crew member was wearing a life jacket and recovered without injury.
TAS
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Vessel’s steering control panel caught fire. Vessel lost steerage and was escorted to shore for repair.
TAS
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Vessel grounded following propulsion failure. Significant damage sustained to hull.
VIC
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel capsized during strong weather conditions. Significant damage sustained. Three crew members fell overboard and were wearing lifejackets. No injuries reported.
WA
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel’s engine room filled with smoke. Later determined to be related to an electrical fault. Repairs underway.
WA
Class 1 - Passenger
Vessel collided with channel marker during poor visibility. Minor damage sustained to both vessel and marker.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel grounded after mooring failure. No damage or pollution reported.
WA
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Crew member slipped during pilotage operation. Crew member sustained an ankle fracture.
NT
Class 2 - Non-Passenger
Vessel flooded with bungs found not to be in place. Damage sustained to engines and electrical.
NT
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Barge collided with vessel at anchor. Significant damage sustained. No injuries or pollution reported.
NT
Class 3 - Fishing (commercial)
Recreational vessel collided with domestic commercial vessel at speed. Significant hull damage sustained.
- August 2021
There were 76 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in August 2021. Of these, 22 were serious.
State Vessel type Incident NSW Class 1 - Passenger Vessel beached due main engine failure. Assistance was required to recover the vessel. Nil injuries or pollution reported. NSW Class 2 - Non-Passenger Crew member touched high voltage terminal, sent for precautionary medical assessment. Crew member later cleared of injury. NSW Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Vessel flooded due to water ingress. Significant damage reported. Vessel currently undergoing repairs. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Personal watercraft deliberately collided with vessel while underway. Crew member sustained minor injury. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel capsized while under tow. Nil persons onboard at the time of capsize. Nil pollution reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel's engine room flooded due to seal collar failure. Vessel is undergoing repair. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Passenger sustained a back injury from waves. Medivac and hospitalisation required. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel's main switchboard ignited due to electrical fault. Fire extinguished by crew. Nil injuries reported. QLD Class 2 - Non-Passenger Crew member fractured wrist while operating the vessel's manual coupling winches. Medivac and hospitalisation required. QLD Class 2 - Non-Passenger Crew member fell overboard while boarding the vessel. Crew member was recovered, nil injuries. Crew member was wearing a lifejacket. QLD Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Vessel collided with recreational vessel due to poor visibility. Two persons from the recreational vessel fell overboard and the vessel immediately sunk. Coast guard recovered the persons overboard & towed the disabled commercial vessel back to shore. TAS Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Vessel's net cleaner engine failed and ignited. Fire immediately extinguished by crew. No injuries or pollution reported. VIC Class 1 - Passenger Vessel's engine room flooded due to communication failure between crew. Significant damage sustained. WA Class 1 - Passenger Passenger sustained a back injury after travelling through turbulent waters. Medivac and hospitalisation required. WA Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with fuel barge while underway. Damage sustained to the vessel's hull. Nil injuries or pollution reported WA Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Crew member fractured hand while unloading. Hospitalisation required. WA Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Crew member sustained a fractured foot due to a pot line becoming caught around leg. Medivac required. NSW Class 3 - Fishing (commercial) Crew member sustained eye injury due to the mainline snapping. Medivac required. WA Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with mooring buoy due to poor visibility. Passenger sustained bruising on face from impact. No medical attention required. WA Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with bridge while underway in flood conditions. Damage sustained. WA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel's steering cables melted due to heat from cracked turbo. WA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel suffered blackout due to generator fault while underway. Repairs in progress.
- July 2021
There were 55 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in July 2021. Of these, 15 were serious.
State Vessel Type Incident QLD Class 1 - Passenger Crew member fell overboard after vessel struck pole while berthing. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 3 - Fishing Vessel grounded due to navigation error. Radar was inoperable. Crew member injured. QLD Class 2 - Non-passenger Vessel grounded due to main engine breakdown. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel made contact with ferry due to an engine control failure. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 2 - Non-Passenger Crew member sustained minor burns due to butane cylinder exploding while cooking. WA Class 1 - Passenger Crew member fell overboard after losing control of tender. Injuries sustained to neck and throat. Medivac required. WA Class 1 - Passenger Master of vessel sustained multiple injuries after jumping on the back of a lemon shark. Medivac required. WA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel made contact with submerged rock while entering refuelling jetty. Damage sustained to skeg and propellers. Nil injuries reported. QLD Class 2 - Non-Passenger Passenger fell overboard while fishing due to not having a locking strap on the deck. Passenger recovered, nil injuries. Passenger was not wearing a lifejacket. QLD Class 3 - Fishing Crew members suffered electric shock while engaged in fishing operations. Medivac required. NSW Class 2 - Non-Passenger Disabled vessel collided with wharf after caught in tug wash. Damage to vessel reported. Nil injuries or pollution reported. QLD Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel severely damaged and cabin filled with water after being hit by a rogue wave. Nil injuries reported. SA Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with wharf due to gearbox failure. Minimal damage to vessel and wharf reported. Nil injuries reported. SA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessels capsized after hull filled with water due to lake drainage and low tide. Minor damage reported. Nil persons onboard. NSW Class 1 - Passenger Vessel suffered steering loss due to generator failure. Nil damage or injuries reported.
- June 2021
There were 57 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in June 2021. Of these, 19 were serious and 1 very serious.
State Vessel Type Incident NSW Class 4 - Hire and Drive VERY SERIOUS - Explosion onboard vessel. Passenger taken to hospital with severe burns. Damage reported. NSW Class 1 - Passenger Vessel lost propulsion in starboard engine. Vessel held position with remaining engine. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Propeller made contact and became entangled with mooring line. Passengers were transferred to another vessel. Nil damage or injuries reported. TAS Class 3 - Fishing Vessel collided with a moored vessel while berthing. Damage sustained to the vessel's hull. Nil injuries reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel flooded after hull breach due to wear and tear. The vessel has since been repaired. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 1 - Passenger Crew member fell overboard when attempting to transition from the berthed vessel to the wharf. No injuries reported. TAS Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel almost made contact with a rowing vessel in the dark. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel grounded in low tide, making contact with coral rock. Nil injuries and damage reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel made contact with edge of reef. The vessel sustained damage to the crash bar that surrounds the hull. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 4 - Hire and Drive Vessel collided with recreational vessel following loss of control. Minor damage reported. Nil injuries. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Main engine exhaust leak resulted in crew members suffering from headaches and sore eyes. Nil damage reported. SA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel collided with tugboat in strong winds. Damage sustained to vessel. Nil injuries reported. NT Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel's engine room filled with smoke after shaft gland overheated. Nil damage or injuries reported. NSW Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel grounded on rocks in shallow water causing damage to both engines. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 3 - Fishing Vessel made contact with rocks. Two crew members injured. Damage reported to the hull of the vessel and it's engines. VIC Class 4 - Hire and Drive Houseboat collided with another houseboat. Damage to rear ski deck of one houseboat. Nil injuries reported. TAS Class 2 - Non-Passenger Crew member sustained an injury during a boarding training exercise. Training was immediately ceased, and the crew member received first aid and medical treatment on shore. QLD Class 3 - Fishing Smoke detected from the vessel's engine room. The crew evacuated and boarded the tender. On assessment, the exhaust had split open filling the engine room with fumes. Nil injuries or damage reported. WA Class 2 - Non-Passenger Vessel submerged on its mooring. Currently undergoing salvage operations. An investigation to follow. Nil injuries reported. WA Class 1 - Passenger Vessel grounded after GPS malfunction. Nil injuries or damage reported.
- May 2021
There were 60 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in May 2021. Of these, 22 were serious.
State Vessel Type Incident QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel during berthing causing damage. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Deck and hatches flooded during load testing. The pumps were inadequate to remove the water from the bilges. SA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Battery exploded due to generator malfunction, during monthly maintenance tasks. Minor injuries of engineer reported engineer. QLD Class 4 – Hire and Drive Vessel grounded on reef in choppy water conditions and strong currents. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Steering failed and being hit by a wave resulted in vessel grounding on beach. Master reported injured. Vessel was later towed. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel reported missing at sea after mooring rope broke. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Four tonne D shackle thrown onto tug narrowly missing crew member. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Starboard engine failed resulting in fire and smoke. Fire extinguished and vessel returned on port engine. Nil injuries reported. WA Class 1 – Passenger Large wave impacted vessel. Crew sustained injuries. Ambulance attended from port. WA Class 3 – Fishing Lift rope parted resulting in a net falling on crew member. Crew member sustained spinal injuries and was taken to hospital. . WA Class 1 - Passenger Fixed fire-fighting extinguisher was accidentally activated resulting in contents filling the engine compartment. Crew member escaped through an open hatch. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel due to sunlight glare causing poor vision. Nil injuries reported. TAS Class 3 - Fishing Tiller swung hard to port causing crew member to fall overboard. Kill switch was not on wrist resulting in the tender spinning out of control. Crew member inflated their lifejacket and swam clear. They were rescued by a nearby vessel. Nil injuries reported. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel grounded due to low tides and swell. Nil injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel collided with another vessel due to no visible navigation lights. Nil injuries reported. QLD Class 4 – Hire and Drive Vessel collided with another vessel after losing propulsion. Nil injuries or damage reported. NSW Class 3 – Fishing Gearbox failed due to object being caught in propeller. Vessel towed to shore and undergoing repairs. NT Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel made contact with reef during poor weather conditions. Nil injuries reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel was partially submerged while under tow due to wash of two passing vessels. Nil injuries reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel due to anchor dragging. Damage to one vessel's solar panels. WA Class 1 – Passenger Port propeller blade made contact with submerged rock while berthing. Propeller sustained damage and was replaced.
- April 2021
There were 82 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in April 2021. Of these, 33 were serious and 1 very serious.
State Vessel Type Incident QLD Class 3 – Fishing VERY SERIOUS: Trawl gear fauled resulting in vessel capsizing with one person on-board. The person was rescued by a passing vessel. The vessel sank but has since been salvaged. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Multiple passengers leaning against handrail caused gate lock to release. One passenger fell over-board without a lifejacket. Passenger was retrieved. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel sank overnight due to suspected hull breach. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Vessel grounded during low tide and while manoeuvring to avoid another vessel. Bow made contact with port marker. No injuries reported. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel collided with another vessel’s tender while berthed. Minor damage. No injuries reported. WA Class 4 - Hire and Drive Collision between two hire and drive jet skis. Minor injuries and damage reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Crew member fell backwards into open hatch. Safety bulletin circulated to fleet to manage the risk of a similar incident reoccurring. No injuries reported. TAS Class 3 – Fishing Barge capsized whilst moored overnight. Efforts are being made to determine contributory factors. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel flooded and subsequently capsized with person onboard. Flare and EPIRB activated. Person rescued with nil injuries reported. SA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Crew member slipped on stairs causing hand fracture. Crew member was taken to hospital for treatment. SA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel made contact with mooring post when attempting berth. Damage to vessel. TAS Class 3 – Fishing Vessel flooded as a result of a hull breach caused by corrosion. Bilge pump was used. Repairs to be inspected by accredited marine surveyor. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel made contact with fendering of traffic bridge during towing operation. WA Class 1 – Passenger Main engine failed and shut down. Smoke observed, but no sign of fire. Vessel was towed to safety. WA Class 3 – Fishing Vessel grounded during poor visibility and plotter malfunction. Investigation into contributory factors is underway. NSW Class 4 – Hire and Drive Hire and drive vessel flooded and capsized following a large wave. All passengers went overboard and were rescued by Water Police. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Passenger fell overboard without a lifejacket when disembarking the vessel. Passenger was provided with life ring and recovered with rescue dingy. NSW Class 4 – Hire and Drive Gas leak on vessel. Crew showed signs of gas exposure. Ambulance performed medical checks on-site. QLD Class 2 – Non-Passenger Main engine failure resulting in loss of propulsion. Inspection identified electrical issue with emergency stop button. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Vessel made contact with mooring post. Damage to hull of vessel. No injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Crew member pinned between vessel and jetty during berthing operation. First aid administered on-site. Crew member taken to hospital for further treatment. Investigation is on-going. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Forty litre oil spill reported. Spill occurred during fuel transfer while alongside the wharf. Efforts are being made to contain the spill. TAS Class 3 – Fishing Crew member fell asleep during navigational watch. The vessel grounded resulting in damage. No injuries reported. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Crew lost control of vessel while adjusting mooring lines in area of strong tidal flow. Vessel drifted and collided with another vessel resulting in the sinking of two dories. The vessel flooded and subsequently sunk. No injuries reported. SA Class 1 – Passenger Small fire in vessel oven. The fire was extinguished quickly with no damage or injuries reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel grounded during berthing attempt. Damage to shroud and propeller. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel grounded at speed resulting in damage to outboard engines. No injuries reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel grounded on reef during low tide. No injuries reported. TAS Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel at anchor. The vessel sustained damage and was assisted back to shore by VTS. No injuries reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel steering failed during operation. Upon inspection, it was found that the manual steering was defective. No damage or injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Crew member received an electric shock from damaged electric cord with exposed wires. Crew member recovered and was medically cleared. QLD Class 4 – Hire and Drive Vessel grounded in shallow water. No damage or injuries reported. NSW Class 4 – Hire and Drive Hire and drive vessel grounded on rocks. Damage sustained to the hull. No injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Vessel grounded on rocks following loss of astern propulsion. Passengers were disembarked with no injuries.
- March 2021
There were 86 reported marine incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in March 2021. Of these, 27 were serious and 1 very serious.
State Vessel Type Incident WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger VERY SERIOUS: Vessel capsized due to wave impact in zone assessed for safe navigation. The crew escaped and made their way to shore. Their EPIRB was promptly activated. Investigation is on-going. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel collided with another vessel. No injuries or damage reported. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel due to morse cable detaching from gear box. Two passengers lost their balance and sustained minor injuries. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Small engine fire discovered and extinguished quickly. No injuries or damage reported. Suspected cause was electrical fault. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Crew member slipped into an open hatch whilst performing maintenance activities and broke a foot. Operator is conducting a hazard awareness review for crew. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel flooded. AMSA Joint Rescue Coordination Centre was notified and a rescue helicopter was dispatched. The crew were able to stop the leak and return to shore. No injuries reported. TI Class 2 – Non-Passenger Damage to vessel’s underwater stabilizers due to possible contact with an unknown object or manufacturing fault. No injuries reported. Vessel has ceased operation until rectified. VIC Class 1 - Passenger A diver made contact with a vessel's propeller and injured their foot. Emergency services were called and attended. SMS review and compliance action taken. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel flooded and capsized due to bowline giving way during a towing operation. No injuries reported. Vessel advised not to operate until cleared. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel contacted a communications cable and capsized with six people. Everyone was wearing a lifejacket and were rescued. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel contacted a loose tug and damaged the wheelhouse window. No injuries reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel attempted to enter its berth and collided with a recreational vessel. No injuries reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel main engine failed and there was smoke. Fire alarm activated. Engine was repaired and vessel returned to service. WA Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel grounded on sand bank in Greenough River. Head injury to passenger. Breach report issued for failure to report. QLD Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel made contact with a log which resulted in hull damage, flooding and grounding. No injuries reported. Prohibition notice issued. TAS Class 1 - Passenger Close quarters with a seaplane. Vessel performed an emergency stop to avoid collision. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel collided with another vessel. Minor damage. No injuries reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-Passenger Crew member's hair was caught in alternator causing bruising on scalp, muscle pain and shock. First aid administered on-board. SMS reviewed and amended. WA Class 1 - Passenger Damaged thread in cast fuel rail resulted in engine fire. Fire extinguished quickly. No injuries or further damage reported. VIC Class 4 – Hire and Drive Vessel collided with another vessel. Damage to both vessels. No injuries reported. SA Class 4 – Hire and Drive Vessel made contact with towline of another vessel. The crew were found asleep and their radios were switched off. Damage reported. Investigation is ongoing. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel lost propulsion when engine failed. No radio coverage, therefore EPIRB was activated. Vessel was towed to safety. NSW Class 1 - Passenger Passenger jumped overboard. Water police and VTS assisted with the search. Passenger was found onshore. No injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel capsized and semi-submerged due to extreme weather conditions. No injuries reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel flooded and capsized due to cargo affecting stability. Crew went overboard without lifejackets and were rescued by nearby vessel. NSW Class 4 – Hire and Drive A crew suffered burns to their arms due to engine fire. First aid was administered, and emergency services were called. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Vessel made contact with submerged object. Propeller detached from gearbox. No injuries reported. NSW Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel flooded and capsized due to swell. Bilge pump was clogged and failed. No injuries reported and no environmental impacts.
- February 2021
There were 80 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in February 2021. Of these, 21 were serious and 1 very serious.
State Vessel type Incident NSW Class 2 – Non-passenger Very serious: Rescue vessel made contact with person overboard. QLD Class 3 – Fishing Vessel grounded after being left on autopilot while crew slept. No injuries. Damage unknown. WA Class 2 – Non-passenger Crew member slipped and fell overboard. Lifejacket inflated and crew made it back onboard unassisted. No injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Crew member suffered an injured finger after getting caught between rope and bollard. Transferred to hospital for treatment. QLD Class 1 - Passenger Vessel drove over soft sand, causing severe bumpy movement. Injury reported to one passenger. No damage reported. NSW Class 4 – Hire ‘n’ drive Hirer fell overboard from houseboat while attempting to moor in a “no go” zone. Recused by another vessel close by. Transferred to hospital via ambulance from shore. SA Class 3 – Fishing Vessel grounded on rocks after dragging anchor. Significant damage to hull reported. VIC Class 2 – Non-Passenger Vessel engine caught fire following a mechanical failure. Emergency fire services called to assist. Significant damage to engine and surrounding mechanical equipment. Vessel inoperable. No injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Passenger received severe finger injury after being crushed between line and bollard. Rescue boat transferred passenger to shore for hospital treatment. TAS Class 1 – Passenger Vessel made contact with submerged rock causing hull damage and minor flooding. No injuries reported. TAS Class 1 – Passenger Passenger vessel grounded following loss of engine power. Passengers evacuated. No injuries reported. WA Class 4 – Hire ‘N’ Drive Vessel drifted and grounded ashore following anchor shackle failure. Minor damage reported. No injuries reported. NSW Class 4 – Hire ‘N’ Drive Vessel grounded on beach. Marine Rescue evacuated all onboard. No injuries or damage reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Luxury yacht collided with a recreational vessel while under no power. Damage to vessels unknown. SA Class 3 – Fishing Vessel ran aground resulting in hull damage. No flooding or pollution reported. No injuries reported. Investigation ongoing. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Leak in starboard engine crankcase resulted in smoke. No fire reported. Fixed Fire Fighting System activated, and emergency services requested. No injuries reported. NT Class 2 – Non-passenger Crew received an electric shock from fan extension lead draped over fire extinguisher bracket. Transferred to hospital by another crew member. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel made contact with a lateral marker causing minor damage to both. No injuries reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Crew member’s finger was pinched while trying to retrieve anchor. Crew was wearing protective gloves at the time. Transferred to hospital, surgery required. NT Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel flooded following a failed hose clamp on deck wash intake. Vessel was also overloaded with passengers and additional fuel. Passengers evacuated to nearby shore. Cargo rescued from vessel. Two jerry cans lost. Helicopter called to retrieve crew and passengers. No injuries reported. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Crew member overboard following large swell. Crew member was wearing a safety harness and was recovered quickly. Injuries sustained to ribs, back and lip. Transferred to hospital for treatment. Another crew member sustained minor injuries. SA Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel grounded on rocks while manoeuvring at night. Extent of damage unknown. No injuries reported.
- January 2021
There were 85 reported incidents involving domestic commercial vessels in January 2021. Of these, 21 were serious and 2 very serious.
State Vessel type Incident NSW Class 2 – Non-passenger Very Serious – Crew member fatally injured after being stuck by a vessels mast while it was being lifted onto the barge by crane. WA Class 1 – Passenger Very Serious – Vessel collided with an anchored recreational vessel with two persons onboard. One person from recreational vessel reported deceased. The other person sustained minor injuries. VIC Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel sunk on mooring overnight. Oil residue on surface. No persons onboard. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Passenger fell overboard after latches were released on the front gate. Vessel was travelling at low speed and retrieved the passenger within minutes. Minor injuries reported. VIC Class 2 – Non-passenger Rescue vessel grounded on sandbank while assisting a recreational vessel with engine troubles. Vessel re-floated with a heavy wave but the engine would not start. Vessel towed back to shore. No injuries reported. NSW Class 4 – Hire ‘n’ drive Runabout vessel with three persons onboard took on water while being towed by hire boat. Minor injuries reported. Flooded vessel towed back to shore. NSW Class 3 - Fishing Main engine unable to start due to gear box failure approximately 80 miles out to sea. Vessel towed to shore. No other damage reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Passenger vessel (which was drifting at the time) collided with recreational vessel while anchored. Damage sustained to both vessels. No injuries reported. WA Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel suffered port engine shutdown and became disabled due to propeller fouling by a trawling net. Vessel towed by company vessel in the vicinity, with tug assistance requested to enter Port. One assisting tug also became entangled in the trawl net causing engine shut down. Tug was unable to render assistance and returned to port on one engine. WA Class 2 – Non-passenger Small fire onboard while vessel was undergoing a deck refit. This was caused by a welding spark making contact with a hanging sheet. Fire extinguished on the spot by crew. No damage to vessel. No injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Passenger took control of vessel during passenger loading. Vessel made contact with dock causing damage. The passenger was removed from the vessel and Police were called. No damage to vessel or injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Vessel ran aground. Ballast water was pumped out to reduce draught on the flood tide and the vessel re-floated. No damage, pollution or injuries reported. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Vessel suffered engine failure after a loud bang and violent shaking. Damage to engine coupling and protective cage reported. Vessel arranged passengers to be transferred to shore. No injuries reported. VIC Class 2 – Non passenger Vessel sank at berth following a shaft seal failure. No persons onboard. QLD Class 1 – Passenger Passenger suffered a foot injury from walkway slide joint. First aid administered on board and passenger transferred to hospital by ambulance from shore. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Crew member suffered finger injury after getting hand trapped between container and lifting gear. Transferred to hospital for treatment. VIC Class 1 - Passenger Jetski collided with fishing charter vessel at high speed breaching the hull above the water line. No injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Recreational vessel collided with vessel after anchor chains became hooked when bringing up anchor. Damage to hull on domestic commercial vessel. No injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger River boat got caught in ferry’s downstream side chains and made contact. No obvious damage to ferry, damage to river boat unknown. No injuries reported. NSW Class 1 – Passenger Vessel took on water while moored due to multiple bilge pump failures. Vessel towed to marina for emergency slipping. No persons onboard. TAS Class 3 – Fishing Vessel hull breached on portside from protruding jetty obstructions causing the vessel to flood and half submerge. Breach fixed and the water was removed, vessel stabilised. No persons onboard. QLD Class 2 – Non-passenger Vessel made contact with berth pontoon after master tripped and accidently pulled the starboard engine lever. Damage to hull plates reported. No injuries reported.