Simulation facilities validate novel Port Kembla berthing manoeuvre

A vessel berthing manoeuvre, first trialled using AMCS bridge and tug simulation facilities, has been successfully executed at Port Kembla, New South Wales.

The cape-sized bulk carrier New Future was berthed for the first time Starboard Side To in a challenging manoeuvre that involved a 180 degree turn while loaded.

Simulated trial runs of the manoeuvre were first conducted by Port Kembla personnel using models of their own port - modelled in-house using Kongsberg Maritime Polaris software - in AMC’s Full Mission Bridge and Tug simulators at the Centre for Maritime Simulation in Launceston.

The simulated runs enabled the Harbour Master, three Marine Pilots and Tug Master to confirm the feasibility of the new manoeuvre and optimise its execution in a safe environment.

Richard Lorenc, Bulk Ore Preparation Operations Manager at vessel charterer BlueScope, explained that the ability to berth Starboard Side To brings significant efficiencies.

“By swinging the ship around, we can take our Ore Unloader to our mid berth maintenance area without the need to do a stern lift, resulting in time and cost savings.

“It also means we have more room to discharge and store lump ore — which has been a problem for us — meaning a more efficient discharge process.”

 The AMC Centre for Maritime Simulations was selected by BlueScope because it is ideally suited to this type of port operations manoeuvering trial, Lorenc said. The facility boasts next-generation simulation technology including a 4K projection system and a fully interactive debriefing chart table.

 “We had a great experience on the day and the staff the skills and professional experience of the staff made the day run smoothly and efficiently,” Lorenc said.

“We were particular impressed with the layout of the facility, which greatly assisted with working through the risk assessment process. It gave us all greater confidence that we could embark on this trial.”

In addition to port operations manoeuvering, the Centre for Maritime Simulations is utilised for pilot training, port development evaluation, ship familiarisation and evaluating tug requirements.

Its extensive library contains models of most Australian ports, along with over 130 vessels. New areas based on existing ports or designs can be modelled on-demand.