The ATSB is investigating a propulsion failure during pilotage of the bulk carrier FMG Nicola at Port Hedland, Western Australia, on 7 February 2025.
Reportable factual details about the incident were not provided to the ATSB following the incident. In July 2025, the ATSB was made aware of additional information about the incident and made follow-up inquiries with the port authority and the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. Assessment of that information resulted in initiating the investigation.
At 1400 local time on 7 February 2025, the fully-laden bulk carrier FMG Nicola departed its berth in Port Hedland under the conduct of 3 harbour pilots and with 4 tugs assisting. At 1442, one pilot departed and the pilotage through the harbour channel continued under the conduct of the other pilots.
At 1516, as the ship approached the turn to port through beacons 31 and 32, the ship's main engine shut down and propulsion was lost. The ship veered off track, travelling along near the side of the channel. Port Hedland vessel traffic service was contacted and directed 3 additional tugs to assist the ship.
While waiting for the additional tugs, the other tugs stabilised the ship’s movement and at 1524, the main engine was restarted. The additional tugs arrived and were secured at 1545, and the third pilot returned via helicopter. The ship was then conducted along the remainder of the channel.
An inspection was conducted to check for water ingress, damage and pollution but did not identify any. At 1806, the pilots departed, and the ship continued its voyage.
The ATSB has started collecting available evidence from relevant parties for its investigation.
Should a critical safety issue be identified at any time during the investigation, the ATSB will immediately notify the operators of the ship and the port, and other relevant parties so that appropriate and timely safety action can be taken.
The final report will be published at the conclusion of the investigation.