Media Release
26 February 2007 Immediate release
Ship owner pays for illegal oil discharge
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority recorded a successful prosecution today against ship owners after oil had been illegally discharged from a Panamanian vehicle carrier.
MV Brussel was observed trailing an oil slick seven kilometres in length approximately 48 kilometres south west of Malacoota in Victoria.
The Chief Executive Officer of the AMSA had high praise for the Master and crew of the Australian vessel Goliath who reported the spill and assisted in identifying the MV Brussel as the cause of the slick.
Only an illegal discharge of oil can be seen on the sea surface. Witnesses in this case observed a very dark substance with a shiny colourful sheen indicating that the discharge contained a substantial amount of oil.
“It is highly encouraging to our organisation to know that we are ably assisted in our environmental protection role by responsible seafarers monitoring the illegal activity of those not concerned for the protection of our pristine Australian seas,” Mr Davidson said.
“A fine of $30,000 against the owners and $3,000 for both the Master of the MV Brussel and the same for the Junior Engineer, should send a sound message that those polluting our environment will be caught and will be dealt with to the full extent of the law.”Media inquiries: Tracey Jiggins 0418 164 901