'Pinch-yourself moment': new tug boat's grand Newcastle entrance
WHAT an entrance.
Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26.
To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads.
The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore.
At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility.
"It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said.
"Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart."
The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean.
It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance.
Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer.
"It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said.
"This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull."
"It's a new design with leading-edge technology."
Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia".
"[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said.
The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels.
The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said.
"We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said.
A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August.
WHAT an entrance.
Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26.
To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads.
The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore.
At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility.
"It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said.
"Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart."
The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean.
It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance.
Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer.
"It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said.
"This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull."
"It's a new design with leading-edge technology."
Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia".
"[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said.
The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels.
The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said.
"We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said.
A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August.
WHAT an entrance.
Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26.
To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads.
The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore.
At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility.
"It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said.
"Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart."
The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean.
It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance.
Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer.
"It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said.
"This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull."
"It's a new design with leading-edge technology."
Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia".
"[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said.
The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels.
The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said.
"We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said.
A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August.
WHAT an entrance.
Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26.
To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads.
The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore.
At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility.
"It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said.
"Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart."
The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean.
It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance.
Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer.
"It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said.
"This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull."
"It's a new design with leading-edge technology."
Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia".
"[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said.
The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels.
The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said.
"We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said.
A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August.
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The Advertiser
20 hours ago
- The Advertiser
Jeff McCloy tributes: 'We were Statler and Waldorf'
Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse." Tributes have flowed from across the Hunter and beyond for Hunter businessman Jeff McCloy, who died on Friday, aged 75. Mr McCloy ended his life by voluntary assisted dying following a 12-month battle with an aggressive form of motor neurone disease (MND). City of Newcastle led the tributes to Mr McCloy, who was Lord Mayor between 2012 and 2014. "Jeff McCloy was one of the region's most successful business people of recent years. His drive, his can-do attitude and his passion for the community were all hallmarks of his success," Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge said. "A particular achievement was his leadership and resolve that enabled his team to finish construction of the new John Hunter Hospital well ahead of schedule after the 1989 earthquake. This was crucial to Newcastle's recovery and reconstruction." A generous philanthropist, Mr McCloy freely gave to many local charities and public art and sculpture projects. He also quietly and discreetly helped out many Novocastrians in personal difficulties. "Like all big achievers, he had his critics, but no one can deny his passion and positive commitment to the community," Cr Kerridge said. Deputy Lord Mayor Callum Pull said Mr McCloy became Lord Mayor after a period of instability and stagnation in local politics. "In his time as Lord Mayor, he demonstrated strong resolve and a clear vision," he said. "He got Newcastle moving again. The reforms he enacted unlocked the revitalisation of our city. Those reforms changed the mindset and approach to renewal in our city. "I hope that today, Novocastrians take the opportunity to reflect on his legacy as a leader who believed in giving back to the city he called home." City of Newcastle chief executive Jeremy Bath said Mr McCloy had left an indelible mark on the city he loved. "Jeff saw the potential in Newcastle when many others didn't. Today, we almost take for granted that developers want to build and invest in Newcastle. This wasn't always the case. "Jeff's belief in Newcastle dating back to the 1980s convinced others that ours was a town that had the potential to become a city." Mr McCloy's political ally and deputy Lord Mayor, Brad Luke, celebrated his unyielding passion for the city. "Jeff was the most visionary and inspirational leader I ever worked with," Mr Luke said. "He had a passion for Newcastle that drove every decision and he put that passion into every project. I remember seeing that passion on display with every discussion around so many projects from the Anzac Walk to fixing the Town Hall. Jeff always wanted each job to be the best it could be for our community." Hilton Grugeon yesterday mourned his mate of more than 50 years. The pair met when Mr McCloy returned from Sydney to work with his father, Don, in the family's commercial building company, DF McCloy. "We were Statler and Waldorf (the grumpy old men from the Muppets). We never knew who was who because it was interchangeable," he said. Mr Grugeon said Mr McCloy's legacy throughout the region was "huge". "The John Hunter Hospital was a great money-making legacy for him, which he spread around the town. What he did in Newcastle was never for himself because he didn't need anything; it was for the city and the region he loved." "For some of us, the easiest thing is to throw money, but the hardest thing is to give your time. You can give money and go out and earn more, but when you give time, you've spent something that is irreplaceable, and he gave his time to the city." Like others, Mr Grugeon paid tribute to Mr McCloy's leading role in the revitalisation of Newcastle. "Newcastle was like a dead horse, and the chamber of commerce and local council were like a horde of blowflies hovering over the carcass. Jeff lit the fire that the Phoenix could come out of; the Phoenix we see today came out of that dead horse."
The Advertiser
2 days ago
- The Advertiser
'Pinch-yourself moment': new tug boat's grand Newcastle entrance
WHAT an entrance. Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26. To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads. The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore. At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility. "It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said. "Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart." The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean. It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance. Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer. "It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said. "This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull." "It's a new design with leading-edge technology." Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia". "[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said. The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels. The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said. "We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said. A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August. WHAT an entrance. Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26. To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads. The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore. At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility. "It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said. "Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart." The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean. It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance. Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer. "It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said. "This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull." "It's a new design with leading-edge technology." Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia". "[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said. The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels. The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said. "We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said. A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August. WHAT an entrance. Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26. To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads. The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore. At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility. "It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said. "Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart." The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean. It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance. Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer. "It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said. "This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull." "It's a new design with leading-edge technology." Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia". "[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said. The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels. The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said. "We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said. A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August. WHAT an entrance. Svitzer Barrington, named after Barrington Tops, arrived at its new home at the Port of Newcastle's tug base on Thursday, June 26. To welcome it, a guard of honour was formed by eight tugs as the new vessel crossed the sand bar of Nobbys Heads. The tugs then formed a circle for the Barrington to move into the centre and complete donuts as Novocastrians watched on, the sound of horns echoing along the foreshore. At the helm was fleet training superintendent and tug master Ben Holder, who steered the tug into the harbour in a showcase of its agility. "It was a real privilege to bring such an innovative tug into Newcastle," Mr Holder said. "Taking her sideways through the cut at seven knots was a pinch-yourself moment. Despite her size and incredible stability, she handles like a go-kart." The 32-metre Transverse tug is the first of its kind in Australia. It was built in Turkey and sailed to Australia via the Mediterranean, Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, Panama Canal and Pacific Ocean. It is billed as representing a generational advancement in towage standards, innovation and performance. Svitzer Australia chief operating officer David Phillips said the tug class was purpose-built for versatility and power, making it different to other tug designs by Svitzer. "It's maintaining high steering and braking forces through a range of movements without losing the dynamism or responsiveness required by marine pilots," he said. "This includes a patented half-circle towing staple which is able to support advanced towing manoeuvres and a double-ended hull." "It's a new design with leading-edge technology." Mr Phillips said Svitzer Barrington was deployed to the Port of Newcastle because "it's one of the busiest ports in Australia". "[The Port] services a range of large vessel types in complex tidal and weather conditions," he said. The port hosts more than 4500 vessel visits per year, including large capesize vessels shipping coal, bulk grain and agricultural vessels, container ships, breakbulk freight and cruise vessels. The demand for tugs to assist these vessels safely in and out of the terminal continues to increase, Mr Phillips said. "We chose Newcastle because this vessel is built to high specs to demonstrate its capability an,d it's a great opportunity to showcase and support our largest port. We're very excited about it," he said. A sister tug is expected to join the Port of Newcastle in mid to late August.
The Advertiser
03-06-2025
- The Advertiser
Newcastle to Bali flights 'game-changer', Hunter tourism industry says
The new direct flights to Bali are a "game-changer" for Hunter tourists and visitors alike, local travel agents and tour operators say. Newcastle Airport announced on Tuesday June 3 morning that Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar from October 21 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Return flights will leave Bali on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kiera Burke co-owns Newy Tour Co, a guided tour company with options from vineyards to whale-watching. "For us to be able to be connected internationally and for Denpasar as such a hub to other places, it just opens up more opportunities for potential customers," she said. "Newcastle is a bit of an undiscovered hidden gem when it comes to global tourism." Ms Burke said in the 18 months her business had been open, their customer base was already 60 per cent international, with guests from Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. "This is definitely helping put us on the map with international tourism," she said. The tour operator said when pitching to overseas agencies, an international airport along with the city's beaches piqued their interest. "They start to consider us for itineraries and options for their guests travelling to Australia," she said. Noah's On The Beach Hotel in Newcastle and Hunter Travel Group (HTG) also celebrated the new service. "This is a game-changer for travellers in the Hunter Region, offering the convenience of flying overseas straight from our own backyard - no more battling Sydney traffic or lengthy airport commutes," HTG managing director Brett Dann said. The new route offers connections from more than 40 countries and would take just over six hours. Following Tuesday's announcement, Jetstar launched a 24-hour sale of $199 one-way fares with general pricing yet to be revealed in detail. Julia van Huisstede from italktravel in The Junction said the Bali routes were "long-awaited and anticipated". She said their phones were already ringing this morning and emails were filing in. "A lot are bookings or quotes for people to travel next year that hadn't committed yet," she said. "Bali is definitely a hot spot for Novocastrians, we have a huge market going there." The travel agent said she hoped the move would draw in Indonesian tourists and other international guests who would be able to connect via Bali. "People might go to Singapore and then Bali for a holiday, and then continue to Newcastle," she said. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said they hope to offer more routes and holiday destinations "shortly". "I'd love to say tomorrow but hopefully later on this year," he said. Mr Horton said they would consider holiday spots similar to Bali under eight hours away. "We are actively talking to other airlines and working to build a broader international network for the region," he said. "Airlines have to be cautious where they put their places and their people, but I think very quickly they'll see how strong the demand is," he said. Jetstar head of airline partnerships and network Ted Knight said the Newcastle service had been a long time in the making. "With this service, we will have 70,000 seats per year," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route would help boost industries in the visitor economy arena. He said the flights would hopefully expand to the movement of goods via the planes as well. "It also opens opportunities for new freight connections, which will benefit our export businesses and encourage the flow of more outbound goods from other parts of the state through Newcastle," he said. Both Ms van Huisstede and Ms Burke hoped to see routes further expanded to destinations such as Singapore, Fiji and Hong Kong. One Newcastle Herald reader said it was the first step forward with hopefully more international routes to follow while another said they hoped for Singapore, Tokyo or Jakarta. Singapore topped a poll of readers' favoured next overseas routes, with 61 per cent of respondents backing the Asian hub. The USA polled 14.7 per cent, behind other options (16.8 per cent), while another Australian route landed at just over 7 per cent. The new direct flights to Bali are a "game-changer" for Hunter tourists and visitors alike, local travel agents and tour operators say. Newcastle Airport announced on Tuesday June 3 morning that Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar from October 21 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Return flights will leave Bali on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kiera Burke co-owns Newy Tour Co, a guided tour company with options from vineyards to whale-watching. "For us to be able to be connected internationally and for Denpasar as such a hub to other places, it just opens up more opportunities for potential customers," she said. "Newcastle is a bit of an undiscovered hidden gem when it comes to global tourism." Ms Burke said in the 18 months her business had been open, their customer base was already 60 per cent international, with guests from Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. "This is definitely helping put us on the map with international tourism," she said. The tour operator said when pitching to overseas agencies, an international airport along with the city's beaches piqued their interest. "They start to consider us for itineraries and options for their guests travelling to Australia," she said. Noah's On The Beach Hotel in Newcastle and Hunter Travel Group (HTG) also celebrated the new service. "This is a game-changer for travellers in the Hunter Region, offering the convenience of flying overseas straight from our own backyard - no more battling Sydney traffic or lengthy airport commutes," HTG managing director Brett Dann said. The new route offers connections from more than 40 countries and would take just over six hours. Following Tuesday's announcement, Jetstar launched a 24-hour sale of $199 one-way fares with general pricing yet to be revealed in detail. Julia van Huisstede from italktravel in The Junction said the Bali routes were "long-awaited and anticipated". She said their phones were already ringing this morning and emails were filing in. "A lot are bookings or quotes for people to travel next year that hadn't committed yet," she said. "Bali is definitely a hot spot for Novocastrians, we have a huge market going there." The travel agent said she hoped the move would draw in Indonesian tourists and other international guests who would be able to connect via Bali. "People might go to Singapore and then Bali for a holiday, and then continue to Newcastle," she said. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said they hope to offer more routes and holiday destinations "shortly". "I'd love to say tomorrow but hopefully later on this year," he said. Mr Horton said they would consider holiday spots similar to Bali under eight hours away. "We are actively talking to other airlines and working to build a broader international network for the region," he said. "Airlines have to be cautious where they put their places and their people, but I think very quickly they'll see how strong the demand is," he said. Jetstar head of airline partnerships and network Ted Knight said the Newcastle service had been a long time in the making. "With this service, we will have 70,000 seats per year," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route would help boost industries in the visitor economy arena. He said the flights would hopefully expand to the movement of goods via the planes as well. "It also opens opportunities for new freight connections, which will benefit our export businesses and encourage the flow of more outbound goods from other parts of the state through Newcastle," he said. Both Ms van Huisstede and Ms Burke hoped to see routes further expanded to destinations such as Singapore, Fiji and Hong Kong. One Newcastle Herald reader said it was the first step forward with hopefully more international routes to follow while another said they hoped for Singapore, Tokyo or Jakarta. Singapore topped a poll of readers' favoured next overseas routes, with 61 per cent of respondents backing the Asian hub. The USA polled 14.7 per cent, behind other options (16.8 per cent), while another Australian route landed at just over 7 per cent. The new direct flights to Bali are a "game-changer" for Hunter tourists and visitors alike, local travel agents and tour operators say. Newcastle Airport announced on Tuesday June 3 morning that Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar from October 21 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Return flights will leave Bali on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kiera Burke co-owns Newy Tour Co, a guided tour company with options from vineyards to whale-watching. "For us to be able to be connected internationally and for Denpasar as such a hub to other places, it just opens up more opportunities for potential customers," she said. "Newcastle is a bit of an undiscovered hidden gem when it comes to global tourism." Ms Burke said in the 18 months her business had been open, their customer base was already 60 per cent international, with guests from Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. "This is definitely helping put us on the map with international tourism," she said. The tour operator said when pitching to overseas agencies, an international airport along with the city's beaches piqued their interest. "They start to consider us for itineraries and options for their guests travelling to Australia," she said. Noah's On The Beach Hotel in Newcastle and Hunter Travel Group (HTG) also celebrated the new service. "This is a game-changer for travellers in the Hunter Region, offering the convenience of flying overseas straight from our own backyard - no more battling Sydney traffic or lengthy airport commutes," HTG managing director Brett Dann said. The new route offers connections from more than 40 countries and would take just over six hours. Following Tuesday's announcement, Jetstar launched a 24-hour sale of $199 one-way fares with general pricing yet to be revealed in detail. Julia van Huisstede from italktravel in The Junction said the Bali routes were "long-awaited and anticipated". She said their phones were already ringing this morning and emails were filing in. "A lot are bookings or quotes for people to travel next year that hadn't committed yet," she said. "Bali is definitely a hot spot for Novocastrians, we have a huge market going there." The travel agent said she hoped the move would draw in Indonesian tourists and other international guests who would be able to connect via Bali. "People might go to Singapore and then Bali for a holiday, and then continue to Newcastle," she said. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said they hope to offer more routes and holiday destinations "shortly". "I'd love to say tomorrow but hopefully later on this year," he said. Mr Horton said they would consider holiday spots similar to Bali under eight hours away. "We are actively talking to other airlines and working to build a broader international network for the region," he said. "Airlines have to be cautious where they put their places and their people, but I think very quickly they'll see how strong the demand is," he said. Jetstar head of airline partnerships and network Ted Knight said the Newcastle service had been a long time in the making. "With this service, we will have 70,000 seats per year," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route would help boost industries in the visitor economy arena. He said the flights would hopefully expand to the movement of goods via the planes as well. "It also opens opportunities for new freight connections, which will benefit our export businesses and encourage the flow of more outbound goods from other parts of the state through Newcastle," he said. Both Ms van Huisstede and Ms Burke hoped to see routes further expanded to destinations such as Singapore, Fiji and Hong Kong. One Newcastle Herald reader said it was the first step forward with hopefully more international routes to follow while another said they hoped for Singapore, Tokyo or Jakarta. Singapore topped a poll of readers' favoured next overseas routes, with 61 per cent of respondents backing the Asian hub. The USA polled 14.7 per cent, behind other options (16.8 per cent), while another Australian route landed at just over 7 per cent. The new direct flights to Bali are a "game-changer" for Hunter tourists and visitors alike, local travel agents and tour operators say. Newcastle Airport announced on Tuesday June 3 morning that Jetstar will fly from Newcastle to Denpasar from October 21 on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays. Return flights will leave Bali on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Kiera Burke co-owns Newy Tour Co, a guided tour company with options from vineyards to whale-watching. "For us to be able to be connected internationally and for Denpasar as such a hub to other places, it just opens up more opportunities for potential customers," she said. "Newcastle is a bit of an undiscovered hidden gem when it comes to global tourism." Ms Burke said in the 18 months her business had been open, their customer base was already 60 per cent international, with guests from Indonesia and other Southeast Asian countries. "This is definitely helping put us on the map with international tourism," she said. The tour operator said when pitching to overseas agencies, an international airport along with the city's beaches piqued their interest. "They start to consider us for itineraries and options for their guests travelling to Australia," she said. Noah's On The Beach Hotel in Newcastle and Hunter Travel Group (HTG) also celebrated the new service. "This is a game-changer for travellers in the Hunter Region, offering the convenience of flying overseas straight from our own backyard - no more battling Sydney traffic or lengthy airport commutes," HTG managing director Brett Dann said. The new route offers connections from more than 40 countries and would take just over six hours. Following Tuesday's announcement, Jetstar launched a 24-hour sale of $199 one-way fares with general pricing yet to be revealed in detail. Julia van Huisstede from italktravel in The Junction said the Bali routes were "long-awaited and anticipated". She said their phones were already ringing this morning and emails were filing in. "A lot are bookings or quotes for people to travel next year that hadn't committed yet," she said. "Bali is definitely a hot spot for Novocastrians, we have a huge market going there." The travel agent said she hoped the move would draw in Indonesian tourists and other international guests who would be able to connect via Bali. "People might go to Singapore and then Bali for a holiday, and then continue to Newcastle," she said. Newcastle Airport CEO Linc Horton said they hope to offer more routes and holiday destinations "shortly". "I'd love to say tomorrow but hopefully later on this year," he said. Mr Horton said they would consider holiday spots similar to Bali under eight hours away. "We are actively talking to other airlines and working to build a broader international network for the region," he said. "Airlines have to be cautious where they put their places and their people, but I think very quickly they'll see how strong the demand is," he said. Jetstar head of airline partnerships and network Ted Knight said the Newcastle service had been a long time in the making. "With this service, we will have 70,000 seats per year," he said. Business Hunter CEO Bob Hawes said the route would help boost industries in the visitor economy arena. He said the flights would hopefully expand to the movement of goods via the planes as well. "It also opens opportunities for new freight connections, which will benefit our export businesses and encourage the flow of more outbound goods from other parts of the state through Newcastle," he said. Both Ms van Huisstede and Ms Burke hoped to see routes further expanded to destinations such as Singapore, Fiji and Hong Kong. One Newcastle Herald reader said it was the first step forward with hopefully more international routes to follow while another said they hoped for Singapore, Tokyo or Jakarta. Singapore topped a poll of readers' favoured next overseas routes, with 61 per cent of respondents backing the Asian hub. The USA polled 14.7 per cent, behind other options (16.8 per cent), while another Australian route landed at just over 7 per cent.
