Sydney Harbour Ship Seized Amid Sinking Fears

Authorities seized a disintegrating 2000-tonne ship, the MV Cape Don, near Sydney Harbour on Tuesday. The vessel was taken from Balls Head at Waverton with the assistance of water police.

Expert assessments found the ship to be in extremely poor condition, posing a risk to Sydney Harbour, its environment, and the community. This seizure marks the beginning of its removal and disposal process.

The Sea Heritage Foundation, a charity that owns the ship, has vowed to fight the seizure. They dispute claims that the vessel is at risk of sinking and plan to appeal the notice.

Transport for NSW Maritime issued an unsafe vessel notice in June last year after inspections revealed significant concerns about the hull, including rust and large holes. Reforms to the Marine Safety Act strengthened powers to seize and dispose of derelict vessels.

Community group Save Our Sydney Harbour welcomed the action, noting it as a step forward for the harbour's cleanup. The group has been lobbying for measures like a bond from owners to cover risks posed by derelict vessels.