Bulker Faces Consequences for Bilge Discharge Off Australian Coast
The owner and master of a Chinese bulker, TS Golf, is facing legal trouble in Western Australia due to an ill-timed discharge of bilgewater. The vessel’s chief mate pumped sulfur-contaminated bilge water from a cargo hold when the ship was transiting off Esperance, 15 nautical miles offshore. Although outside the 12-mile line, a commercial helicopter pilot observed a green discharge and alerted local authorities, leading to an investigation by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
During the inquiry, the chief mate admitted to being “absent-minded” during the discharge, claiming it was unintentional. The ship’s master acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and promptly called a safety meeting to address the matter. In a recent hearing at the Kalgoorlie Magistrate Court, Magistrate Janie Gibbs acknowledged the captain’s remorse and apology.
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While the degree of harm from the discharge was classified as “medium or low,” the sentencing is scheduled for January 19.
Under Australian law, the shipowner, Minsheng Haike (Tianjin) Shipping Leasing Company, could face a fine of up to $145,000, and the master could be fined as much as $29,000. Authorities are treating the incident seriously, particularly due to its location off Esperance, known for its pristine coastline, national parks, and tourist attractions. Magistrate Gibbs emphasized that even minor pollution could significantly impact such an idyllic region.
