MARITIME Safety Queensland says it is leading “a coordinated response” to an oil fuel spill involving the container ship Sofrana Surville (IMO 9408372) at the Port of Brisbane, which occurred during a refuelling operation at 12.47am on Friday 2 October 2026.
About 6.9 cubic metres of very low sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) is estimated to have been released into the water.
“No injuries have been reported. The spill has now been contained at the source and fuel oil is no longer entering the waterway from the ship,” an MSQ spokesperson said.
Maritime Safety Queensland and partner agencies have deployed multiple response vessels, containment boom, skimmers and drones to support clean-up operations and aerial monitoring
Maritime Safety Queensland’s Vessel Traffic Services are also broadcasting advice every 30 minutes for vessels to avoid the area.
Maritime Safety Queensland has advised all skippers and waterway users to stay away from impacted and operational areas, navigate with caution and follow all directions from the regional harbour master.
As a precaution for the safety of waterway users, the Whyte Island Boat Passage has been closed until further notice.
A notice to mariners also has been issued for the Brisbane Pilotage Area.
Environmental monitoring and assessment activities are underway with any impacts to be assessed as part of the response.
Marine park rangers will remain on scene for the next three days in response to potential impacts to wildlife.
Rangers are yet to observe any wildlife impacts. People are encouraged to report impacted wildlife to DETSI on 1300 130 372.