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Sydney Charter Boat Operator fined $ 15,000 for polluting Sydney Harbor
by Penny Robins July 25 19:38 UTC
Ship's sewage tank © Penny Robins
Sydney was fined $ 15,000 after being discovered with a cable clamp opening the valve. sewage disposal on a luxury charter boat Angus Mitchell, executive director of Roads and Maritime Services, said that the issuance of a notice of penalty under the marine pollution laws was the only way out. culmination of an investigation after a targeted compliance campaign and the inspection of two chartered boats last month.
On Friday, June 15, NSW's inspectors of roads and marine services and inspectors and the water police stopped two chartered vessels after performing random inspections in response to credible information received regarding potential security breaches. ".
"As a result of further interviews and investigations, a penalty notice has now been issued by marine and road investigators under the Environmental Protection Act, 1997."
"An inspection of the engine room revealed that the sea discharge valve of the ship's sewage tank was secured in an open position by a cable tie, and the water tank was empty – directly after the return of the ship.
"This indicates that any toilet spill was pumped directly into the sea in the waters of Sydney Harbor.
"Other investigations have confirmed the water pollution offense and, as a result, Roads and Maritime has issued the shipowner a fine of $ 15,000 payable in 21 days for the time being." pollution offense.
million. Mitchell said that there was nothing more serious for other boaters and marine life than breaches of marine safety and pollution legislation.
"Other security breaches identified as part of the targeted compliance operation are being considered for further possible legal action by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority ( AMSA). "
The two boats were immobilized for several days until the necessary safety improvements were made and verified by a marine surveyor.
In addition to the sewerage problems, one of the vessels was found last month for not having a "competent crew" on board who did not know the location of the lifejackets or other safety equipment on board.
"The defective safety equipment included empty fire extinguishers, a life raft unable to float, an outdated first aid kit and missing items.
million. Mitchell said that of the 12,000 New South Wales domestic commercial vessels, there are about 220 in New South Wales and about 140 in Sydney Harbor.
"Marine inspectors and inspectors take a risk-based approach and conduct regular inspections of high-risk vessels, including the targeted compliance of certain vessels, particularly after receipt of credible information by the vessel. agency, "said Mr Mitchell.
"All operators must adhere to strict safety standards that are in place to protect people, property and the environment or to cope with the consequences."
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