PNG Ports acquires pilot launch

THE PNG Ports Corporation Limited (PNGPCL), with technical assistance from the Australian Reef Pilots (ARP), has successfully acquired a pilot launch from Australia for its pilotage operations.
PNGPCL’s marine engineer, Karrybert Frank, is currently in Yamba, New South Wales, Australia, for the trials of the pilot launch named mv Mondi.
The pilot launch was named after the wife of PNGPCL’s current board chairman, Dr Ila Temu.
General manager of ARP, Alan Maffina, in a letter to the PNGPCL management, said that the PNGPCL pilotage operations required infrastructure such as pilot launch and pilot accommodation.
“To this end, we have been refitting a pilot cutter (launch) at Yamba in northern New South Wales for relocation to PNG and we are inviting PNG Ports chief engineer, Mr Karrybert Frank, to attend the trials of the vessel at Yamba,” he said.
“We currently have an arrangement with PNG Ports whereby marine pilotage is provided through Jomard Entrance for large ships transiting PNG waters.”
He said pilots of the ARP hold PNG pilotage licences issued by the National Maritime Satefy Authority (NMSA).
Mr Frank arrived in Australia earlier this month and will stay there for about one month, with the possibility of him returning to PNG aboard the mv Mondi.
Mr Maffina said Mr Frank would also be attending a computer maintenance system training in Brisbane during his visit.
ARP will take full responsibility of the activities and conduct of Mr Frank during his stint in Australia.