The Australian Antarctic Division’s icebreaker RSV Nuyina is too big to fit under the Hobart’s Tasman Bridge, with the vessel now needing to travel hundreds of kilometres north to refuel.
TasPorts has refused permission for the $528m research vessel to refuel at Selfs Point, a short distance upstream on the other side of the Tasman Bridge, despite Hobart being the closest port to the Southern Ocean and Antarctica.
According to The Guardian, TasPorts had previously suggested the ship may be able to pass under the bridge after training, however approval was not granted.
The icebreaker will now have to refuel in Burnie for the upcoming summer season, something they will have to do before every voyage to Antarctica.
“The AAD has received advice from TasPorts that RSV Nuyina is not permitted under the Tasman Bridge to refuel at Selfs Point,” an AAD spokesperson told Guardian Australia.
“RSV Nuyina will refuel in Burnie for the upcoming summer season. The Australian Antarctic Division is working with the Tasmanian government on long-term Hobart-based refuelling options.”
Nuyina first journeyed to Antarctica in January 2022 after delivery delays due to the pandemic.
In the past, the AAD have confirmed Nuyina “fits within the physical limitations set out by TasPorts for transiting under the Tasman Bridge”.
TasPorts are yet to comment.
