NEPTUNE Pacific Direct Line is to deploy a new, purpose-built landing craft for the Norfolk Island trade.
The MV Norfolk’s commissioning is proceeding to plan, with the vessel’s delivery slated for early April, NPDL said in a statement. The vessel is to proceed to Singapore for bunkering in April prior to its arrival in Brisbane in late April or early May.
“The purchase and refitting of the MV Norfolk signifies NPDL’s long-term commitment to providing reliable, efficient and sustainable shipping and supply chain services to the Norfolk Island community,” the company said.
NPDL’s barge service to the island is continuing with three confirmed voyages remaining, with the last scheduled to depart Brisbane on 7 April.
Shipping is a major concern for residents of Norfolk Island.
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts recently released a report on community views on shipping to the island.
In the report, the relevant minister, Kristy McBain, said the flow of sea cargo to the island was “well below” what is needed to sustain the community.
