Bulk carrier stabilised off Qld coast

Robyn Wuth |

Authorities say a coal carrier that was taking in water off the Qld coast has now been stabilised.
Authorities say a coal carrier that was taking in water off the Qld coast has now been stabilised.

Tugboats remain on standby after emergency repairs stabilised a cargo ship taking on water off the Queensland coast.

The Panama-flagged bulk carrier Frontier Unity reported seven metres of water in its engine room, and that its pumps had stopped working, Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) General Manager Kell Dillon told AAP. 

The coal carrier had 24 people on board while heading to Hay Point near Mackay when it began taking on water on Tuesday. 

“Emergency repairs have been initiated, and the situation has now been stabilised,” Mr Dillon said on Wednesday. 

“Emergency towage services remain on standby to move the vessel to shallower water if needed.” 

No injuries or fatalities have been reported.

AAP