Summary:
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) takes the safety of crew, vessels and the protection of the marine environment seriously.
After receiving reports that Liberian-flagged bulk carrier, Swift Hangzhou, was experiencing engine issues shortly after departing Gladstone Port, AMSA activated an Incident Management Team (IMT) on 2 February 2026 to coordinate a response.
AMSA is working closely with Queensland authorities, the vessel’s captain and operator, and has deployed Emergency Towing Vessels (ETV) and a Maritime Casualty Officer (MCO) to manage the response.
The vessel, crew and marine environment are currently assessed as safe. AMSA is continuously monitoring the incident to ensure the crew remain safe and the vessel remains stable away from nearby reef systems.
Details:
-
On Sunday 1 February 2026, AMSA received a report from Liberian-flagged bulk carrier Swift Hangzhou, with 21 crew onboard, stating it was having engine issues after it had left Gladstone Port to its port of call in South Korea on 31 January 2026.
-
AMSA immediately stood up an IMT on Monday 2 February 2026 to manage and coordinate resolution to the incident, working with Queensland authorities, the Master of the vessel, operator and company.
-
Following AMSA directions issued to the owner and operator on the evening of Tuesday 3 February 2026, AMSA has tasked to date four ETVs to render assistance and ensure the vessel remains clear of navigation hazards.
-
AMSA has deployed an MCO to board the vessel. An MCO is an AMSA specialised officer who acts as a liaison between the captain and crew of the vessel, and AMSA.
-
The MCO will provide on-the-ground intelligence and assist the captain and AMSA in determining the best course of action.
-
The vessel is assessed as safe in its current position. AMSA is closely monitoring for any potential risks of movement towards nearby reef systems and forecast weather conditions.
-
AMSA understands the crew onboard are safe and well, with access to necessities and provisions.
-
AMSA continues to assess operational and safety risks to implement plans to support safety of crew and protection of marine environment and is working closely with the relevant Queensland authorities.
ENDS
Photos are available here: Swift Hangzhou