Propulsion failure of Basic Victory, near the coast, 33 km north of Newcastle, New South Wales, on 30 July 2025

Summary

The ATSB is investigating the incident which involved the propulsion failure of the bulk carrier, Basic Victory, close to the coast of New South Wales, north of Newcastle, on 30 July 2025.

At about 0800 local time on 30 July, Basic Victory was drifting about 20 miles off the Port of Newcastle while waiting to berth there, when its main engine failed. The ship drifted towards the coastline north of Newcastle and by about 1730 had closed to within 3 miles of the nearest land. At about this time, the ship’s master reported the propulsion failure to Newcastle vessel traffic service and requested permission to anchor. Shortly afterwards, however, the crew succeeded in restarting the main engine and the ship steamed clear of the coastline.

Analysis of the evidence collected has resulted in the investigation's scope being upgraded to the Defined level (see here).

The final report has been drafted and is undergoing internal review to ensure the report adequately and accurately reflects the evidence collected, analysis, and agreed findings.

The final report will be released at the conclusion of the investigation. Should a critical safety issue be identified during the course of the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify relevant parties, so that appropriate safety action can be taken.