Port Authority of NSW has developed a brand-new pilot ladder training facility in Port Kembla, allowing maritime professionals and trainees to safely practice scaling ladders on the side of a moving ship.

Port Authority partnered with Avcon Projects to design the custom-built onshore pilot ladder training facility which includes a full nine-metre length ladder suspended over shipping containers and a step-off platform to simulate the challenging task of scaling a ladder to board a commercial vessel at sea.

Port Authority of NSW CEO Philip Holliday said Port Authority is committed to investing in training opportunities for its dedicated marine operations team, and those looking to upskill.

“The safety of our marine operations team is our highest priority, and by investing in this training facility we are ensuring our teams and stakeholders are given the tools to facilitate safe vessel transfers.

“This facility not only puts Port Authority at the forefront of operational excellence, but also delivers a major cost saving by minimising the need to attend external training facilities,” Captain Holliday said.

Harbour Master of Port Kembla and South Coast Sharad Bhasin said pilots and boat crews face varied conditions at sea, and the facility will make ladder training exercises more accessible, improving skills and safety outcomes.

“The facility will be used not only for pilots, vessel traffic services operators and pilot boat crews, but also those who require ladder training and familiarisation before they are permitted to undertake a transfer onto or off a vessel.

“The new ladder training facility will improve the skill in our teams, ensuring safer and more efficient transfers.”
Source: Port Authority of NSW