DoT harbours in Pilbara and Gascoyne prepare for weather system

The Department of Transport (DoT) has acted to ensure the safety of vessels at its coastal facilities in the Pilbara and Gascoyne as a tropical low approaches.

DoT Maritime Executive Director Chris Mather said vessels at Port Walcott, Barrow Island, Cape Preston, Onslow, Point Samson, Exmouth, Coral Bay and Carnarvon had been told to implement their cyclone contingency plans and move to their dedicated cyclone mooring or pen.

“Vessels without these arrangements have been instructed to leave the facilities for safer waters and no access is being granted to the facilities,” Mr Mather said. 

“These actions have been undertaken in close consultation with facility operators and DoT continues to work to minimise the impact of the severe weather over the coming days.”

Mr Mather said weather forecasts would be monitored and once conditions improved vessels would be allowed to enter the facilities again.

He said operators could contact the DoT Harbour Master or Harbour Manager to discuss any safety or operational concerns.

Visit DoT’s website to view community information for facilities during cyclones.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au