ATSB: Complex Interaction Forces Can Cause Breakaways in Fast Currents

Pilots and port officials at Brisbane have revised their rules for ship movements after two dangerous breakaways, caused by a combination of extreme river currents and hydrodynamic forces from passing ships. 

In May 2022, during an unprecented high rainfall event, a series of controlled dam releases upstream on the Brisbane River caused strong currents at the Port of Brisbane’s container terminal. The currents put extra strain on the mooring lines on the boxships that were berthed alongside at the port. 

On May 16, the container ship OOCL Brisbane broke away from its berth at the port, just as it was passed by the container ship Delos Wave. All…