THE PORT of Fremantle is bracing for a stormy long weekend with vessels now ordered out to sea.
A shipping agent's memo from the port’s harbour master, Captain Savio Fernandes, is predicting adverse weather for 31 May to 3 June.
It said current weather forecasts indicate a prolonged adverse weather event and vessels at the FPA Inner anchorages – all vessels at Gage Roads, ORAN and ORA anchorages are required to proceed to sea for the period of impact.
“This requirement is based upon forecast wind force along with prolonged and variable directional impact expected at these anchorages,” the memo said.
“All charges for pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account. Vessels required to proceed to sea will be instructed to do so by Fremantle VTS.”
Vessels at the FPA outer anchorages are required to heave anchor and proceed to sea for the period of impact.
All vessels at Cockburn Sound berths (KBT, KBJ, ALCOA, ORJ, KGJ, AMC) and Inner Harbour berths also will be required to evacuate their respective berths.
All other vessels were ordered to proceed to sea as instructed by Fremantle VTS. No vessels will be permitted to stay alongside berths.
“Fremantle Ports’ scheduling team will keep agents informed accordingly. All charges for unberthing/berthing pilotage and towage shall be to the vessel’s account.“
Preparations and evacuation of the vessels will start today (Friday, 29 May) in late evening.
“Weather forecasts are being frequently monitored and any changes to the above will be communicated accordingly, including notifications regarding resumption of berthing of vessels. At the time of issue of this memo, the earliest berthing is expected to resume is Wednesday - 3 June daylight hours.
“It is important that all vessels evacuating from the port are required to stay well clear of Fremantle Ports’ approaches and the surrounding coastal areas.”
Captain Fernandes said the action was being taken to ensure good risk management during the adverse weather and in the interests of port, terminal infrastructure and vessel safety,