Australia’s Largest Sail-training Ship Hit By Container Ship At Fremantle Port, 2 Injured

An extensive investigation is underway by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) following a significant collision between a large containership and Australia’s largest sail-training ship, STS Leeuwin II, in Fremantle’s inner harbour, Western Australia. The incident occurred early on August 30, 2024, resulting in extensive damage to the sail-training vessel, which is operated by the Fremantle-based Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation. Two crew members on board the berthed vessel were injured and required medical attention.

The collision caused severe damage to STS Leeuwin II, including the complete destruction of its three masts, which has led to a temporary suspension of its sailing schedule. The two injured crew members, who were night watchmen at the time of the incident, sustained non-life-threatening injuries, including a possible broken arm. The Chair of the Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation, Jay Weatherill, expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing that it could have had far more serious consequences.

IMO Instruments Sub-Committee 10th session (III 10) Summary Report

The ATSB has mobilized a team of four transport safety investigators, who specialize in areas such as pilotage, recorded data systems, and shipboard operations. These investigators will gather evidence by inspecting the vessels involved, conducting interviews, and reviewing critical data and environmental conditions from the time of the incident. A detailed final report will be published once the investigation is completed, with Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell assuring that any critical safety issues identified during the investigation will be promptly communicated to prevent future occurrences.