The ATSB has two marine investigators in transit to investigate the fatal lifeboat accident at Port Hedland yesterday.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau was advised late yesterday of the lifeboat accident in which two people received fatal injuries, another two suffered serious injuries, and a fifth less serious injuries.

The accident occurred on 7 October 2004 during a lifeboat exercise on the Hong Kong registered bulk carrier Lowlands Grace, while the ship was at anchor off the WA port of Port Hedland.

The ATSB is sending an investigation team to Port Hedland to determine the circumstances that led to this tragic accident and to make any necessary recommendations to prevent future accidents.

The ATSB team will work cooperatively with police investigators assisting the WA Coroner.

Until the team has arrived on site, the ATSB will not be able to comment on the circumstances of this tragic accident.

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