Australia: MUA Welcomes Decision to Replace Lowlands Prosperity

The MUA has welcomed the decision by BHP Billiton to charter the Lowlands Brilliance as the replacement for the Lowlands Prosperity.

The crew was informed today via an email from Teekay Shipping (Australia) Managing Director David Parmeter to the Master of the vessel.

“I am pleased to advise that we now have confirmation from BHP Billiton that they have secured the charter of the Lowlands Brilliance as the replacement for the Lowlands Prosperity,” Mr Parmeter said.

“As you are aware, the charter on the Lowlands Prosperity will finish in early January.

“The Lowlands Brilliance will enter service in early February and will be under the full technical and crew management of Teekay Australia.

“The operational team in Sydney is working up a plan for the operational takeover of the vessel.

“All concerned individuals will be advised in due course of what this means for them.

“This is a very positive development and we welcome BHPB’s continuing involvement in the Cape size bulk market.”

MUA Assistant Nat6ional Secretary Warren Smith welcomed the development.

“The MUA is very pleased to see the vessel replaced and we look forward to the expansion of our blue water fleet once the Gillard Government’s shipping reform propsals are passed.

“This is good news for the MUA, good news for our members and good news for the shipping industry.”

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World Maritime News Staff, December 21, 2011; Image: MUA