TANKER HITS WHARF

Press, Volume C, Issue 29626, 23 September 1961, Page 10

TANKER HITS WHARF

Mishap While Berthing

Berthing at Lyttelton yesterday afternoon, the 10.945ton Norwegian oil tanker Landbreeze hit the wharf, severely damaging piles stringers and planking. Her shell plating, well aft on the starboard side, was dented above the water-line, and it is believed several rivets were loosened.

The Landbreeze may have to go into dry dock when she arrives at Wellington, according to one of her officers. It would be impossible to assess the damage to the wharf until a full inspection had been made, said the Lyttelton harbourmaster (Captain A. R. Champion) last evening. He said the mishap occurred when the ship's engine was put astern instead of ahead as ordered by the pilot. Captain J. A. Barbour. The tug Lyttelton was on the port bow while the tanker was berthing, starboard side to the wharf. Onlookers said the wrong engine movement caused the tanker to strike the wharf with considerable force.

After an inspection by a Lloyd's surveyor late in the afternoon, temporary precautionary repairs were made. Permission lias been given for the tanker to sail for Wellington when she has completed discharging her Lyttelton cargo of 987 tons of industrial diesel oil and 2200 tons of fuel oil. She is expected to sail today.

The Landbreeze is commanded by Captain Erling Grimstvedt. of Hagesund. and is owned by Mr T. S. Bendixen, of Lillesand. Formerly the Sydhav, she was built in Britain nine years ago and has a crew of 43. *