PILOTS from the Port Authority of New South Wales trained for operations at the Port of Eden using a simulator in Tasmania.
The pilots took part in two-and-a-half days of training at the Australian Maritime College’s Maritime Simulation Centre, 537 kilometres away from the port.
The port authority noted Eden had become a popular destination on Australia’s cruise map, experiencing its biggest and longest cruise season ever this past year, with 34 cruise ships and more than 50,000 passengers.
Port Authority of NSW chief operating officer John Finch said training using the advanced technology at the college was important for new and experienced pilots because it means “no scenario is unfamiliar”.
“It allows our pilots to test the waters, so to speak, in a safe environment so they’re always ready for the real thing,” Mr Finch said.
“By testing and refining our operational and emergency procedures, we can continue to keep the people, ships and environment in our ports safe.
“Ultimately, simulation training – whether for scenarios we encounter now, or those we may experience in the future, like piloting larger ships into the Port of Eden – centres around Port Authority’s commitment to world best-practice standards for shipping operations within all our ports.
“It means we can continue to protect Australia’s sea trade and economy while supporting future growth for Eden, ensuring an ever-thriving community.”
