In this edition we talk about survey procedures to verify radio installations on some vessels, we give tips for conducting a load line renewal survey, talk about simple exemptions and more.

The National Plan remained active during 2000–2001. Although there were no major spills, the National Plan responded to seven incidents.

No major spills of oil or other substances occurred in Australian waters during the year.

The National Plan is operating in a low incident environment both within Australia and also worldwide. Australia’s low incident environment can be largely attributed to the rigorous Port State Control inspections undertaken by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority ensuring that only quality ships arrive in Australia.

During the reporting period, there was one major ship-sourced marine pollution incident in Australian waters, which involved activation of National Plan personnel and resources – the Global Peace spill. The National Plan was also called upon to respond to 106 minor spill incidents.

During 2006-2007, there was one major shipping incident in Australian waters – the Pasha Bulker grounding off Newcastle, north of Sydney. The National Plan was also called upon to respond to 82 minor spill incidents.

During 2008-2009, there were two major shipping incidents in Australian waters – the grounding of the Atlantic Eagle at Maude Reef, off Albany, Western Australia and the Pacific Adventurer incident off south-east Queensland.

Whilst there were no major pollution incidents during the 2012-13 financial year, in July 2012 we completed the removal of the wreck of the MV Tycoon from Flying Fish Cove, Christmas Island. The National Plan was also called upon to support state/NT agencies in responding to several minor incidents.