Number: D37/2021
Date: 18 October 2021
Relevant: Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Topic: Extension to CKI ferry service temporary changes
The Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Communications advises the community and visitors on the Cocos (Keeling) Islands of an extension to the current temporary changes to the ferry service to allow necessary vessel regulatory requirements to be met.
As you are aware the Cahaya Baru ferry is out of the water having its mandatory five-yearly Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) safety and compliance check.
The works are well under way and will ensure the Cahaya Baru will continue to service the Cocos (Keeling) Islands for many years to come.
Unfortunately, the original October date for the Cahaya Baru to return to ferry duties has been delayed due to shipping schedule changes to the MV Borkum, with the deck cranes of the Borkum required to lift the Cahaya Baru back into the water.
It is now anticipated the ferry will be out of the water until about 7 November 2021.
During this time, the RJ Hawke will continue to operate the ferry service at the reduced capacity with the current timetable. On flight days, the Minti Sedaya will continue to be used to provide additional support for airport staff and passenger movements. There will continue to be no ferry services to Direction Island or late night ferries scheduled.
We acknowledge the inconvenience caused by this extended change and thank you again for your ongoing patience during these required works. The Department continues to work with stakeholders to monitor ferry service usage during this time.
Mr Aaron O’Neill
Assistant Secretary, Indian Ocean Territories Branch