May, 2025 - Member Update: Winch requirements at the BHP Terminal at Hay Point, Western Australia

Members should be aware of recent developments concerning winch requirements at the BHP Terminal at Hay Point, Western Australia. 

The Managers understand that with effect from 1st June, 2025, ships of between 65,000 DWT and 120,000 DWT must have at least 12 winch drums as the requirement is for the use of 12 lines on drums. Different winch requirements apply to other size ships. 

Owners should take care when fixing to ensure that when providing information to charterers, such information (whether by the provision of plans or the completion of questionnaire), shows the number of winches. It seems likely that after 1st June charterers will be requesting such information prior to fixing, especially as current information suggests that the Terminal is showing no flexibility on the new requirement. 

In addition, owners should review their charterparty clauses to see whether any clauses contain, or might be said to contain, a promise that, for example, a ship will during the charterparty period be able to comply with all port regulations or requirements. The same will apply to existing charters if a ship is ordered to Hay Point. 

If Members have any questions in relation to the above issues they are invited to contact the Club for further information.