Port continues cyclone preparation

Port of Townsville is continuing preparations for the developing Tropical Low off the Queensland coast, which is forecast to develop into a cyclone in the coming days.

At this time, the Port remains fully operational, with Tuesday’s 8am arrival of cruise ship Seven Seas Explorer to continue as planned. However, German cruise ship Vasco Da Gama has cancelled its scheduled visit on Wednesday in anticipation of deteriorating weather.

Current cyclone preparations being conducted at the Port of Townsville include:

• Minimising cargo on berths and laydown area
• Removing cargo and equipment from tidal surge or flood prone areas
• Implementing tie-down plans, securing buildings and clearing debris; and
• Preparing to implement the Cyclone Evacuation Plan should it be required.

Port of Townsville General Manager Customer, Operations and Safety, Drew Penny said the Port was well prepared for wild weather should it eventuate over the coming days.

“The Port of Townsville begins its cyclone preparedness on 1 November each year and many of the preparations we undertook ahead of Cyclone Jasper in December remain in place,” said Mr Penny.

“We will continue to take advice from the Bureau of Meteorology and Maritime Safety Queensland, and take the appropriate precautions for ensuring the safety of all port workers and visiting seafarers as the weather system approaches.

“At this time, weather forecasts show favourable conditions for visitors arriving on board Seven Seas Explorer and our port team looks forward to welcoming 1,300 passengers and crew. Vasco Da Gama will seek to avoid wind and rain on Wednesday.”

The Port continues to follow advice from Bureau of Meteorology, Townsville Local Disaster Management Group and the Regional Harbour Master.