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The MV 'Mellum Trader' successfully docked in Broome on March 1 at 6 a.m. after navigating treacherous waters with the support of the tugboat 'Yarra'. Prior to its arrival, the 'Mellum Trader' faced significant challenges as it travelled over 250 nautical miles with a concerning 15-degree list due to rough weather conditions caused by tropical cyclone Rusty. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) conducted a thorough inspection of the vessel's cargo security upon its arrival. Operated by Westlink, the 360-TEU vessel was en route from Indonesia to Broome and Dampier when it encountered the adverse weather. AMSA’s Rescue Co-ordination Centre issued a distress signal, which was promptly answered by the Farstad offshore supply vessel 'Far Scimitar', that dedicated over 30 hours to escort the 'Mellum Trader' to safety. The Tidewater-owned 'Allison Tide' also provided support during this challenging situation. Ultimately, it was the Broome Marine & Tug's 'Yarra' that facilitated the final approach into port, ensuring the vessel’s secure arrival. For more information, visit AMSA's incident page at [AMSA Media](http://www.amsa.gov.au/media/incidents/Mellum/images/2013-Feb-Mellum-Full.jpg).

On February 28, the 'Mellum Trader,' which encountered a precarious situation due to shifting cargo and rough weather, was reported en route to Broome. The tug 'Far Scimitar' has been accompanying the vessel since its distress call was made. The Master of the 'Mellum Trader' reached out for support from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) on the evening of February 26, indicating that the vessel was listing up to 35 degrees approximately 190 nautical miles northwest of Broome. To address the listing, the ship altered its course away from the coast, managing to stabilize the situation and reduce the list to 15 degrees by utilizing ocean currents. For over 30 hours, the 'Far Scimitar' traveled alongside the 'Mellum Trader,' remaining vigilant and ready to provide assistance if necessary. Furthermore, the owners of the 'Mellum Trader' have hired an additional tug to meet with the vessel later on February 28 to facilitate its safe entry into Broome's port. The rough weather, featuring strong winds and turbulent seas, was confirmed as the cause of the cargo shift. The 'Mellum Trader' carries 13 crew members and is transporting oil well development casings. AMSA expressed gratitude to the owners and operators of the 'Far Scimitar' for their valuable support during this incident. Additionally, AMSA's Dornier aircraft, based in Darwin, has been moved to Broome to offer further assistance if needed.

In a dramatic turn of events on February 27, 2013, the crew aboard the heavy load carrier 'Mellum Trader' faced a harrowing night as they battled a severe list while navigating the tumultuous waters roughly 320 kilometers northwest of Broome. The vessel, which was en route to Broome carrying a cargo of new oil well casings, began to tilt at a concerning 35-degree angle on the afternoon of February 26 due to a suspected cargo shift. As tensions rose, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority swiftly coordinated rescue operations. A surveillance aircraft launched from Broome successfully located the distressed 'Mellum Trader' 190 nautical miles from the coast. Amid worsening weather conditions, the ship attempted to regain balance by altering its course, which effectively reduced the vessel's list to just 15 degrees by midnight. In a timely response, tugboats 'Far Scimitar' and 'Allison Tide' arrived to assist the 'Mellum Trader', while the crew undertook ballasting measures to enhance vessel stability. By early the next morning, the master of the 'Mellum Trader' reported that the situation had improved significantly, with no further risks developing overnight as the vessel continued on a safer course away from Broome. As of now, the specific cause of the tilt remains unclear.