NOMINATIONS have opened for the Australian Maritime Safety Authority’s 2020-21 Vessel Traffic Services award.

The VTS Award was launched in December 2019 to recognise an outstanding contribution by a VTS to the safety of life at sea, safety and efficiency of navigation and protection of the marine environment.

The award also recognises VTS personnel and the important services they provide among stakeholders and wider industry. 

Last year’s inaugural award went to Hay Point VTS officer Warren Bath for his coordination of an incident involving a bulker that had drifted off the berth in the middle of the night. 

His quick response ensured the ship was returned alongside with no damage to the bulker, surrounding ships or the environment.

Port Hedland VTS and Brisbane VTS were also highly commended for their work during search and rescue incidents in the 2019-20 awards.

Nominations for the 2020-21 VTS Award are open until 21 February. 

More information on the award and on how to enter a nomination can be found here.