Media release – Peter Whish-Wilson, Greens Senator for Tasmania, 24 August 2023
More embarrassment for Australia’s embattled Antarctic vessel
Australia’s embattled $528m icebreaking Antarctic research vessel has been refused permission to travel underneath Hobart’s Tasman Bridge to refuel, and must instead sail hundreds of kilometres north to another port.
Quotes attributable to Greens spokesperson for healthy oceans, Senator Peter Whish-Wilson:
“Assurances from the Australian Antarctic Division’s (AAD) senior management that the RSV Nuyina could be safely re-fuelled in Hobart now look farcical, and risk undermining our Antarctic division’s reputation.
“If the AAD cannot manage something as simple as this, what does it say about our competence in meeting Australia’s critical obligations under the Antarctic Treaty?
“Re-fuelling the RSV Nuyina hundreds of kilometres away from the port originally earmarked to service the vessel will not only have environmental repercussions but presumably will also mean financial cost-savings will have to be found elsewhere in the AAD’s operating budget.
“It’s incredibly frustrating that this comes at a time when important science research programs are already facing significant budget pressures.”
