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Prevention of Pollution from Ships
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National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil
Annual Report 1996-97
Although there were no major oil spills during 1996/97, the National Plan remained active during the period. It responded to one major incident in which fortunately, no oil was spilled and responded to the highest number of minor spills since 1993/94.
The response to the Peacock grounding on Piper Reef in a remote but environmentally sensitive area of Far North Queensland was a major National Plan operation involving more than 65 personnel and five support vessels. The Peacock remained aground for eight days with over 600 tonnes of heavy fuel oil on board.
The incident was the first real test of the National Response Team concept, developed following the Iron Baron incident, and it is pleasing to note that the National Response Team provided an invaluable resource and played an integral part in the response.
The Fixed Wing Aerial Dispersant Capability for the National Plan formally commenced operation in January. This is the most significant improvement in the National Plan response capability in recent years, and has been achieved by means of a three year contract with Australian Maritime Resources in Adelaide. The operation is jointly funded by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority and the Australian Institute of Petroleum. More detail is provided in the report.
The National Plan Advisory Committee (NPAC) held two regular sessions in September and April. Following the April meeting a special session was held to discuss strategic directions. Significant issues addressed by NPAC included implementation of the 37 recommendations arising from the hypothetical exercise "George Bass", concluded in June 1996, and continuing development of both a National Maritime Chemical Spill Plan and a contingency plan for oiled wildlife cleaning and rehabilitation.
NPAC has continued its efforts throughout 1996/97 to ensure Australia has response plans and the appropriate capability to respond to pollution of the sea by oil and hazardous substances.
On behalf of the National Plan Advisory Committee, I have much pleasure in submitting the Annual Report of the National Plan to Combat Pollution of the Sea by Oil for the year ended 30 June 1997.
Michael Julian
Chair
National Plan Advisory Committee
October 1997
last updated:
18 June 2001