The first of three new state-of-the-art tugs has arrived at Geraldton Port, boosting the Mid West Ports Authority capabilities to service exports for the region.
Following a community naming competition, the first vessel was named ‘Svitzer North’ after former Geraldton Port harbour master Thomas ‘Martin’ North – a highly regarded harbour master both locally and within the broader shipping industry.
Svitzer North has undergone port familiarisation and is expected to enter service this week.
Two further tugs – ‘Svitzer Wilu’ and ‘Svitzer Abrolhos’ – are due to arrive within the next two months, as part of Svitzer’s non-exclusive license for towage services with Mid West Ports Authority.
Svitzer North is 30 metres in length, has 70 tonnes of bollard pull and has been designed to deliver maximum efficiency and value in the performance of escort and ship handling duties of large tankers and bulk carriers.
The new tugs will improve safety and efficiency at Geraldton Port, including advanced firefighting capabilities on board.
As stated by Ports Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
“Tugs provide a critical service to ports, enabling the safe manoeuvring of vessels into and out of the harbour.
“With Geraldton Port rapidly expanding, it is vital that we continue to invest into infrastructure and services at the port to facilitate trade.
“The arrival of the new tugs extends a level of confidence to trade partners in our commitment to the Port of Geraldton, its continued development and economic contribution to the region.”
As stated by Svitzer Australia General Manager – West Jodie Ransom:
“The arrival of Svitzer North signifies the strong collaboration between Svitzer and Mid West Ports Authority.
“We are pleased to be boosting our capabilities within the port to provide safe and efficient towage services into the future.”
