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A newly refurbished vessel that was awaiting deployment for search and rescue operations off New South Wales will not enter service on time, and perhaps not at all. The Eden 30 (ED 30), which belongs to Marine Rescue NSW, has been extensively damaged after being struck by another vessel while berthed at the Port of Eden.
Marine Rescue NSW said that the SAR boat, which recently underwent extensive refurbishment, was due to enter service on September 7. However, the plans have now been deferred indefinitely following the strike that occurred on August 31.
Although there was no one on board at the time and no injuries were reported, the collision caused significant structural damages to ED 30’s hull and superstructure, including its cabin and deck. Marine Rescue NSW did not reveal the identity of the other vessel or the circumstances surrounding the collision, including the cause. The only explanation given was that ED 30 was caught between the vessel that struck it and the jetty, resulting in a significant impact and causing extensive damage.
Marine Rescue NSW has a limited budget as a volunteer-run nonprofit, but it made big investments to refurbish the boat’s interior and exterior and ensure it met operational needs. Boatyard work included deck resealing, hull repair and installation of new communication systems. However, the collision damage has now put the boat’s future in jeopardy. A shipwright and vessel surveyor have been brought in to assess the damage and determine options for next steps.
FULL ARTICLE AVAILABLE HERE: maritime-executive.com
