Cyclone Alfred of Australian Coast
Please be advised that Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to bring severe weather to Brisbane and its surrounding areas throughout this week.
In response to the high winds and associated risks to pilotage, Brisbane Ports have suspended all services until further notice.
Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) has suspended inbound vessel arrivals to the Port of Brisbane due to heavy swells since late Sunday under direction from Maritime Safety Queensland’s (MSQ) Regional Harbour Master. Final outbound transits were completed on Monday morning for a number of vessels.
This suspension may result in vessel delays and scheduling adjustments.
GPSM are monitoring the situation and will advise clients affected on further updates asap.
ILA Votes to Ratify New US Dockworkers Contract
More than 45,000 U.S. dockworkers represented by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) ratified a six-year contract, securing a 62% wage hike and averting potential disruptions until 2030.
The US Journal of Commerce reports the new contract bars implementation of full automation without human oversight. Rail-mounted gantry cranes can be utilized by terminals but will require human operator assistance.
The agreement, finalized with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), and approved by 99% of union members, follows a brief strike in October and will be signed on March 11, 2025. The terms are retroactive to October 1, 2024, when the prior contract expired.
Wage increases had been deferred after terms were reached in October until the full contract was completed.
The new contract covers approximately 35 ports from Maine to Florida and along the Gulf Coast. It runs till September 30, 2030.