THE HEROIC actions of responders to the Portland Bay emergency were formally recognised at a special parliamentary event on Thursday.

NSW transport minister David Elliott hosted the event to commend the efforts of key organisations involved in the rescue.

Bulk carrier Portland Bay came dangerously close to grounding south of Sydney in July after it lost power during a storm.

Crews of Engage Towage tugs Diamantina and Martinique and Svitzer tug Bullara had helped keep the ship from grounding and eventually brought it into Port Botany.

Port Authority of New South Wales CEO Philip Holliday said he was “incredibly proud” of the swift and courageous response of teams representing the port authority, Engage Towage and Svitzer.

He said it was humbling to receive the minister’s commendations.

“Protecting people and the environment was at the heart of every decision throughout this operation, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved for their outstanding work that went above and beyond under truly atrocious weather conditions,” Captain Holliday said.

He said the port authority’s vessel traffic service staff were critical in quickly identifying the potential event unfolding and triggering a rapid response.

“As incident controllers of this marine event, Port Authority led and co-ordinated the response that saw all key agencies working side by side to deliver an extraordinary emergency response,” he said.

“I’m so proud of what our staff achieved as we demonstrated just how the maritime industry is able to display its agility, expertise and composure to protect life, property and the environment.

“There were some very long and hard days but all involved delivered in time of great need with a selfless approach to bring the MV Portland Bay and its crew safely into Port Botany for repairs.”

Captain Holliday attributed the success of the operation to the collective efforts of everyone involved, working together as one.

“I would particularly like to acknowledge the heroic efforts of the towage crews who worked in extreme sea conditions day and night to keep all aboard MV Portland Bay safe,” he said.

“The professionalism and skill of the mariners involved were on display for the world to see in appalling conditions.”

Port Authority of New South Wales extended its appreciation to Engage Towage, Svitzer Australia, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority, NSW Ports and the port community at Port Botany.

It also extended thanks to NSW Police Marine Area Command, Transport for NSW, NSW Environment Protection Authority, Westpac Life Saver Rescue Helicopters and Surf Lifesaving NSW, NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, the Department of Environment and Heritage, State Emergency Operations Centre and the Regional Emergency Management office.