Technical failure blamed for ferry grounding
A technical failure has been blamed for the disruption of the Palm Beach Ferry service on March 9 which saw the Ettalong-bound ferry grounded.
In a statement issued by the NRMA which owns and operates Central Coast Ferries, it was confirmed that a major technical failure occurred at around 5pm, forcing the ferry master to ground the vessel just off of Half Tide Rocks.
"Upon grounding, NSW Police Marine Area Command and Central Coast Marine Rescue were called for assistance with responding Marine Area Command officers confirming the vehicle was unable to continue its voyage," said NRMA media advisor Ms Bridget Ahern.
The police escorted the ferry's 31 passengers to their destination while Marine Rescue volunteers helped re-float the ferry and tow it back to Central Coast Ferries base of operations in Empire Bay, she said.
Ms Ahern said a full report had been provided to Roads and Maritime Services and the ferry had since had several pieces of equipment replaced and been deemed seaworthy.
She said that, despite the disruption, services resumed on March 9, with slight delays.
"This occurred right before the second last service of the day was due to depart so we arranged for another ferry to take over the run.
"Our priority was ensuring that people relying on our service got home safely," Ms Ahern said.
SOURCE:
Media statement, 4 Apr 2019
Bridget Ahern, NRMA