Geraldton Port welcomes new ‘state of the art’ tug

The second of three new generation tugs “Svitzer Abrolhos” arrived at Geraldton Port on Tuesday evening, only weeks after the arrival sister vessel “Svitzer North”.

After a community naming competition held jointly with Svitzer Australia, the second tug “Svitzer Abrolhos” was named in honour of the Abrolhos Islands.

“Svitzer Abrolhos” is 30 metres long, with 70 tonnes of bollard pull and increased safety capabilities.

It has advanced firefighting capabilities on board.

Mid West Ports Authority acting chief executive Damian Tully said a further vessel, the “Svitzer Wilu” was due to arrive within the next month.

“The three new tugs will provide an extra level of capability for the Port while assisting ships in heightened weather conditions and in the event of an emergency,” he said.

“Once all three tugs arrive, a naming ceremony will be held with winners of the naming competition invited to come tour these state-of-the-art vessels.”