Pasha Bulker

Pasha Bulker

Pasha Bulker
Photo: portnews.com.au

On June 8, 2007, the 225 meter long, 76781 dwt bulk carrier Pasha Bulker ran aground along the coast of Newcastle, Australia.

 

The Pasha Bulker was one of some 50 vessels moored off shore off the port. The bulker had been several miles offshore in ballast waiting for its turn to berth and load some 58,000 tonnes of coal.  Authorities alerted the vessels that a severe storm was approaching and requested all the vessels to move further out to sea.  The majority took heed and departed, but the Pasha Bulker remained off the coast.  When the storm struck the vessel was blown ashore just outside the breakwater on Nobbys Beach.

Fortunately, the Pasha Bulker’s fuel tanks remained intact and none of the 700 tons of bunker fuel was  released, but the outer hull had sustained damage including water ingress and structural damage.  The salvage firm, Svitzer,  was hired and after several attempts, the Pasha Bulker was refloated a month later on July 2, 2007.

The Pasha Bulker was repaired the following year and went back into service as the Drake in 2008.  Authorities completed an investigation and cited several safety issues.

Download the Report