PDF Reefvts User Manual v2

7/30/2019 PDF Reefvts User Manual v2

1/33

ImportantThe mariner is cautioned that information provided by REEFVTS is to a large extent based upon

reports provided by vessels and can be no more accurate than the information received.

REEFVTS may not be aware of all hazardous situations within the region. The mariner can encounter

unreported hazards at any time. Any conflicting situations or hazardous conditions should be

reported to REEFVTS immediately.

The master of a vessel remains at all times responsible for the manner in which the vessel is

operated and manoeuvred, and is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel under all

circumstances.

Nothing in this manual is intended to relieve any vessel, owner, operator, charterer, master, or

person directing the movement of a vessel from the consequences of any failure to comply with any

applicable law or regulation or of any neglect of precaution which may be required by the ordinary

practice of seamanship, or by the special circumstances of the case.

Contact for enquiries and proposed changesIf you have any questions regarding this document or if you have a suggestion for improvements,

please contact:

REEFVTS Manager, REEFVTSHay Point Operations Centre C/- Maritime Safety QueenslandTel: 61 7 4956 3581 or GPO Box 2595

Fax: 61 7 4956 3367 Brisbane Qld 4001Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Publishing DetailsFirst published December 2004

Second Edition March 2005

Maritime Safety Queensland & Australian Maritime Safety Authority


2/33

REEFVTS User Manual 2nd Edition

Contents1 User Definitions...................................................................................................... 12 Purpose and Intent................................................................................................. 23 Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel Traffic Service (REEFVTS) .................... 33.1 Introduction...................................................................................................................3

3.2 REEFVTS Area................................................................................................................33.3 Competent Authority .....................................................................................................4

3.4 Administration...............................................................................................................4

3.5 Mandatory Reporting Requirements............................................................................43.5.1 Ships required to report to REEFVTS........................................................................................... 4

3.5.2 Warships, Naval Auxiliaries and Government ships .................................................................. 4

3.6 Reporting Offences .......................................................................................................5

4 Services Provided................................................................................................... 64.1 Ship Traffic Information ................................................................................................64.1.1 Receiving Ship Traffic Information .............................................................................................. 7

4.2 Navigational Assistance................................................................................................84.3 Maritime Safety Information (MSI)...............................................................................8

5 Communication with REEFVTS................................................................................ 95.1 Vessel Operating Requirements...................................................................................9

5.2 Primary Communications..............................................................................................95.2.1 Inmarsat C ...................................................................................................................................... 9

5.2.2 VHF Communications.................................................................................................................... 9

5.3 Alternative Communications ..................................................................................... 10

5.4 AIS............................................................................................................................... 11

6 Ship Reporting Obligations ................................................................................... 126.1 Pre-Entry Position Report........................................................................................... 126.2 Entry Report ............................................................................................................... 13

6.3 Route Plan.................................................................................................................. 146.3.1 Standard Route Plan...................................................................................................................14

6.3.2 Mandatory Reporting Points ......................................................................................................15

6.3.3 Waypoints.....................................................................................................................................15

6.4 Mandatory Reporting Points - Interaction with REEFVTS ......................................... 16

6.5 Route Deviation Report.............................................................................................. 16

6.6 Intermediate Position Reports................................................................................... 17

6.7 Defect Report ............................................................................................................. 17

6.8 Final Report................................................................................................................ 186.9 Summary of REEFVTS Reports .................................................................................. 19

7 Standard Route Plans........................................................................................... 217.1 Ships transiting the Inner Route................................................................................ 217.1.1 Inner Route - Deep Draught .......................................................................................................22

7.1.2 Inner Route - Moderate Draught................................................................................................23

7.1.3 Inner Route - Shallow Draught ...................................................................................................24

7.2 Inner Route Chartlets................................................................................................. 25

7.3 Vessels transiting the Great North East (GNE) Channel........................................... 29

7.4 Great North East (GNE) Channel Chartlet ................................................................. 30


3/33

ReefVTS User Manual 2nd Edition Page 1

1 User DefinitionsAIS Automatic Identification System

AMSA Australian Maritime Safety Authority established by the Australian MaritimeSafety Authority Act 1990

APR Automated Position Reporting via Inmarsat C

AUSREP means the Australian Ship Reporting System established under Division 14of Part IV of the Navigation Act

Chemical tanker means a ship to which the BCH or IBC Code referred to in Marine Orders,Part 17 (Liquefied Gas Carriers and Chemical Tankers) applies

Combination carrier means a ship designed to carry either oil or solid cargoes in bulk

IMO International Maritime Organization

IMN Inmarsat Mobile Number

Length of tow means the distance between the stern of the towing vessel and the afterend of the tow

Liquefied gascarrier

means a ship to which the EGC, GC or IGC Code referred to in MarineOrders, Part 17 (Liquefied Gas Carriers and Chemical Tankers) applies

MSI Maritime Safety Information

MSQ Maritime Safety Queensland

Navigation Act means the Navigation Act 1912

Oil tanker means:

(a) a ship constructed or adapted primarily to carry oil in bulk as cargo; or

(b) a combination carrier when it is carrying oil in bulk as cargo; or

(c) a chemical tanker when it is carrying oil in bulk as cargo; or

(d) any other ship fitted with cargo spaces which are constructed and usedto carry oil in bulk of an aggregate capacity of 200 cubic metres or more.

Overall length in relation to a ship, means the distance between:

(a) a vertical line passing through a point that is the foremost part of thestem; and

(b) a vertical line passing through a point that is the aftermost part of thestern; except that if the overall length of the ship cannot be so ascertained,the overall length is taken to be 110 per cent of the length as shown on

the ships load-line certificate.REEFREP means the mandatory ship reporting system established by IMO Resolution

MSC.52(66), as amended by Resolution MSC.161(78), and specified inMarine Orders, Part 56 (REEFVTS) Issue 2.

REEFVTS The Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel Traffic Service (REEFVTS)established by Australia as a means of enhancing navigational safety andenvironmental protection in Torres Strait and the Great Barrier Reef.

SEI Ship Encounter Information

STI Ship Traffic Information (includes SEI and MSI)

VTS Vessel Traffic Service

VTSO Vessel Traffic Service Operator


4/33


2 Purpose and IntentThis manual is intended to provide users of the Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel

Traffic Service (REEFVTS) with information to assist them in optimising the service

provided. For vessels subject to the mandatory ship reporting system within the area, the

manual serves to aid the shipmasters reporting obligations.

This manual is not intended to replace or alter any legislative requirements imposed by the

Navigation Act 1912 in any respect to waters within the REEFVTS Area. Any apparent

conflict between the manual and relevant legislation should be resolved in favour of the

respective legislation.

Vessel traffic services provide the mariner with information relating to safe navigation in a

waterway. This information, coupled with the mariner's compliance with regulations,

guidelines and instructions, enhances the safe passage of vessels through congested

waterways or waterways with particular hazards. Under certain circumstances, a Vessel

Traffic Service Operator (VTSO) may initiate interaction with an individual ship and provide

other information available to REEFVTS that may assist on-board decision-making. This

may include circumstances where information suggests a ship may be standing into

shallow water (e.g. in areas of restricted navigation where there is radar coverage) or

deviating from a recommended route.

The master of a vessel remains at all times responsible for the manner in which the vessel

is operated and manoeuvred, and is responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel under

all circumstances.

Nothing in this manual is intended to relieve any vessel, owner, operator, charterer,

master, or person directing the movement of a vessel from the consequences of any

failure to comply with any applicable law or regulation or of any neglect of precaution whichmay be required by the ordinary practice of seamanship, or by the special circumstances of

the case.


5/33


3 Great Barrier Reef and Torres Strait Vessel TrafficService (REEFVTS)3.1 Introduction

The environmental and cultural significance of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) and TorresStrait region are nationally and internationally renowned. The protection of the

outstanding natural qualities of the region was enhanced with the establishment of the

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park in 1975. It was inscribed on the World Heritage List in

1981, and was designated by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as the worlds

first Particularly Sensitive Sea Areas in 1990.

In 1996, REEFREP was established as an interactive mandatory ship reporting system

which, in accordance with the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

(SOLAS) Chapter V regulation 8-1, that was formally adopted by the IMO under a Resolution

of the IMOs Maritime Safety Committee (MSC52.66).

Since that time the Queensland and Australian Governments have established a suite of

measures to assist in enhancing navigational safety, thereby minimising the risk of a

maritime accident and consequential pollution and major damage to the marine

environment from shipping incidents. The introduction of a Coastal Vessel Traffic Service

(VTS) as a means to enhance navigational safety in Torres Strait and the GBR is one of

these measures.

The Great Barrier Reef and Torres

Strait Vessel Traffic Service

(REEFVTS) is comprised of two majorcomponents:

1. A mandatory Ship Reporting

System (the Great Barrier Reef

and Torres Strait Ship Reporting

System (REEFREP);

2. Monitoring and surveillance

systems including radar,

Automatic Identification System

(AIS), Automated PositionReporting via Inmarsat C (APR)

and VHF Reporting.

3.2 REEFVTS AreaThe area serviced by REEFVTS is the

same area as defined for REEFREP

(Figure 1) and includes:Figure 1: REEFVTS area


6/33


a) The Torres Strait between longitude 141 45' E and 144 00' E, including the

Endeavour Strait and the Great North East Channel;

b) The waters of the Great Barrier Reef between the Australian coast and the outer edge

of the Great Barrier Reef, starting from the outer edge of the Reef at latitude 10 44'

S, longitude 144 00' E, and extending southwards to latitude 22 00' S.

3.3 Competent AuthorityREEFVTS is operated under joint Federal and State arrangements between the Australian

Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ).

3.4 AdministrationThe system is manned and operated on a 24 hour a day basis by Maritime Safety

Queensland personnel operating from the REEFVTS Centre, Radio Call Identity REEFVTSRadio Callsign VZQ 641, situated at Hay Point near Mackay.

The VTSOs have completed the minimum competency standards of Certificate III VTS

operations extending to Certificate IV Advanced Vessel Traffic Operations. These courses

and standards have been provided and set by an accredited Maritime Training College and

comply with the IALA Guidelines.

3.5 Mandatory Reporting RequirementsUnder the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS, Chapter 5)

Governments may establish a VTS when, in their opinion, the volume of traffic or the

degree of risk justifies such services.

The legislative basis for REEFREP is the general power within the Navigation Act to make

regulations to implement SOLAS (s191), and the related power to make Marine Orders(s425(1AA)). Marine Order 56 is the resulting source of obligation.

3.5.1 Ships required to report to REEFVTSThe following categories of ships are required to report to REEFVTS:

a) All ships of 50 metres or greater in overall length;

b) All oil tankers, liquefied gas carriers, chemical tankers or ships coming within the INF

Code, regardless of length;

c) Ships engaged in towing or pushing where it, or the ship being towed or pushed is a

ship described in a) or b) or where the length of the tow is or exceeds 150 metres.

Marine Order 56 applies to all ships in the categories set out above, irrespective of

whether they are on overseas, interstate or intrastate voyages. Other vessels transiting the

REEFVTS area are encouraged to report on a voluntary basis.

3.5.2 Warships, Naval Auxiliaries and Government shipsSOLAS regulation V/8-1 does not apply to any warship, naval auxiliary or government

owned or operated ship; however SOLAS does state that such ships are encouraged to

participate in ship reporting systems... adopted in accordance with this regulation.

This approach is fully supported by the Australian Government, and all ships of the RoyalAustralian Navy (RAN) are expected to participate in REEFVTS on a voluntary basis, along

with other ships owned or operated by the Australian Government.


7/33


3.6 Reporting OffencesAny Master, or Officer of the Watch at the time, who fails to report in accordance with the

reporting requirements, as specified in Marine Orders Part 56, or who wilfully transmits

information which is incorrect, false or misleading, will have committed an offence subject

to a penalty.

Regulation 4 of the Navigation (Orders) Regulations provides:

'4. A person who contravenes a provision of an order made under subsection

425(1AA) of the Act that is expressed to be a penal provision is guilty of an

offence and is punishable, upon conviction:

(a) if the offender is a natural person - by a fine not exceeding $2,000; or

(b) if the offender is a body corporate - by a fine not exceeding $5,000.


8/33


Expected STI (EST):

Meet SILVER ZHANG (P) in your area now

Overtake ENDEAVOUR RIVER (P) at 10 1215

Meet FAR EASTERN SILO (P) at 10 1240

Meet GLORIOUS HALO (P) at 10 1325

Light altered Auscoast warning 340 at 10 30s 142 13eNardana Patches Buoy replaced by Beacon

4 Services ProvidedThe objectives of REEFVTS are to:

Enhance navigational safety in the Torres Strait and the inner route of the Great

Barrier Reef by interacting with shipping to provide improved information on potential

traffic conflicts and other navigational information; Minimise the risk of a maritime accident and consequential ship sourced pollution and

damage to the marine environment in the Torres Strait and Great Barrier Reef region;

Provide an ability to respond more quickly in the event of any safety or pollution

incident.

In support of these objectives the following services are provided to shipping:

1. Ship Traffic Information;

2. Navigational Assistance;

3. Maritime Safety Information.

Much of the information processed by REEFVTS is collected from vessels in the area and

hence mariners are cautioned that advisories based on such information are only as

accurate as the provided information. Further, REEFVTS may not have first hand

knowledge of all hazardous situations that exist in the REEFVTS area. Ships encountering a

hazardous situation, such as a malfunctioning aid to navigation not already included in

Maritime Safety Information should immediately advise REEFVTS.

4.1 Ship Traffic InformationThrough the integrated use of AIS, radar, APR via Inmarsat C and route plans provided by

vessels, REEFVTS generates and disseminates ship encounter predictions in the form of

Ship Traffic Information (STI).

Because of the extensive size of the area, REEFVTS does not routinely broadcast STI

across the whole area but rather advises individual ships as necessary. In addition,

REEFVTS will actively contact vessels to advise of any significant changes to STI.

Ships transiting the region receive STI under the following business rules:

Upon entry to the REEFVTS area a ship will receive STI identifying the predicted shipencounters and Maritime Safety Information (Section 4.3) for the next six hours of

their transit. As shown in the example below (using the Inmarsat C Messaging optiondescribed in Section 4.1.1) the STI identifies the vessel, the time and location of the

predicted encounter.


9/33


Expected STI (EST):

Meet JAVA SEA (P) at 25 0755

(Changed) pass OOCL ENVOY (P) at 25 0925

(New) meet CHAMPION (P) at 25 1125

Note: The meaning of phrases commonly used when STI is delivered are:Pass The word Pass is used to indicate that the ship is stopped.Overtake Overtake means that the ships are heading in roughly the same directionat the position of the predicted encounter.

Meet The word Meet is used to describe all other situations.(P) Indicates piloted vessel(NP) Indicates a non-piloted vessel(DD) Deep Draught

New/changed traffic information After receiving the STI upon entry to the areaREEFVTS monitors the transit of the vessel to identify any significant changes to the

traffic information previously provided such as a new vessel, a change in ETA due to

an increase or decrease in speed.

Where new or changed traffic information is predicted for a vessel, the vessel is

provided with updated traffic information for the next six hours, identifying the

predicted encounters as either:

- New;

- Changed or;

- Unchanged, that is where information provided previously has not changed.

5 Hour Update Where a vessel has transited for a period of 5 hours without any newor changed traffic information predicted, the vessel is provided with updated traffic

information for the next six hours as described under Upon Entry above.

The 5 Hour update will also indicate situations where there are no predicted ship

encounters for the next six hours, that is, there is no new STI for the vessel.

4.1.1 Receiving Ship Traffic InformationMariners have the option to receive STI by one of two methods:

Inmarsat C MessagingImportant Note: Ships who choose to receive STI updates by this method must:

- Provide REEFVTS the ships Inmarsat-C terminal IMN to be used for email.

- Ensure that incoming messages from REEFVTS are read on receipt.

VHF voice communicationsShips are reminded to maintain a listening watch on the appropriate channel frequency for

that section of the REEFVTS area. Refer to section 5.2.2 for a list of channels and

associated reporting points.


10/33


Note: Mariners are reminded that: Updated ship traffic information can be obtained at any time by contacting

REEFVTS;

They should advise REEFVTS if they are not receiving STI to arrange for an

alternative means for the information to be provided (e.g. VHF communications).

4.2 Navigational AssistanceIn circumstances where information available to REEFVTS may assist on-board decision

making, REEFVTS may initiate interaction with an individual ship.

This may include circumstances where information available suggests a ship may be

standing into shallow water (e.g. in areas of restricted navigation where there is radar

and/or AIS coverage) or deviating from a recommended route.

4.3 Maritime Safety Information (MSI)REEFVTS provides vessels with MSI relevant to their location and intended movement.Should mariners notice a hazardous situation that may impact on the navigational safety of

other vessels, this should be communicated to REEFVTS.

In addition, MSI is issued in the appropriate broadcasts from RCC AUSTRALIA in the form of

navigational warnings (AUSCOAST Warnings).


11/33


5 Communication with REEFVTS5.1 Vessel Operating Requirements

Mariners shall comply with all measures established or directions issued by REEFVTS

subject to the urgent needs or demands of safe navigation. If, in a specific circumstance, a

mariner is unable to safely comply with a measure or direction issued by REEFVTS, the

mariner may deviate only to the extent necessary to avoid endangering persons, property

or the environment. The deviation shall be reported to REEFVTS as soon as practicable.

Mariners must ensure that a listening watch is maintained on the appropriate VHF radio

channel as described in Section 5.2.2 of this User Manual.

The mariner must also maintain a listening watch on VHF radio channel 16 in the

international maritime mobile band throughout the REEFVTS area.

5.2 Primary CommunicationsThe primary means of communication with REEFVTS:

a) Inmarsat C - messages sent to REEFVTS using special access code (SAC) 861 via the

Perth LES (222) will be reverse charged to REEFVTS;

b) VHF Radio - Depending on a ships position REEFVTS can be contacted on VHF

channels 5, 18 or 19 (Radio call sign - REEFVTS) 24 hours a day.

The language to be used when communicating with REEFVTS is English, using the IMOs

Standard Marine Communication Phrases where necessary.

5.2.1 Inmarsat CMessages sent to REEFVTS will be reverse charged if ships use special access code (SAC)

861 via Perth LES (222). When setting up the Inmarsat C address book, select ASCII, or 7-

bit or IA5 for data presentation or character code.

Note Mariners are requested to ensure that Inmarsat C terminals are logged into the

Pacific Ocean Region (POR).

Alternatively, messages can be sent to REEFVTS at a cost to the vessel to:

telex +7146483

email: [email protected]

5.2.2 VHF CommunicationsA VHF radio network is employed along the Queensland coast and on islands in the Torres

Strait to allow mariners to communicate with REEFVTS. REEFVTS maintains a listening

watch at all times on the working VHF radio channels listed below. The relationship

between VHF channels and associated Mandatory Reporting points are dependant on a

ships position in relation to the area of that reporting point (Figure 2).


12/33


Name of reporting point andAUS chart designation VHFWorkingChannelName of reporting point andAUS chart designation VHFWorkingChannel

Bramble (A) 18 Barnard (Q) 18

Daru (B) 18 Palm Passage (R) 18

Twin (C) 19 Lucinda (R1) 18Thursday Island (D1) 19 Townsville-Nth (S1) 19

Alpha North (F) 19 Townsville-Sth (S2) 19

Booby (D) 19 Bowling North (S) 19

Alpha South (G) 19 Bowling South (T) 19

Endeavour (E) 19 Blossom (U) 5

Shortland (H) 19 Abbot Point (T1) 5

Hannibal (I) 5 Molle (southbound) (V) 18

Inset (J) 18 Edward (X) 18

Heath (K) 18 Cid Harbour (V1) 18

Pipon (L) 5 Shaw (northbound) (W) 18

Cape Flattery (M1) 19 Creal (Y) 19

Two Isles (M) 19 Mackay (Y1) 19

Gubbins East (N) 19 Hay Point-Nth (Y2) 19

Gubbins West (O) 19 Hay Point-NthEast (Y3) 19

Grafton Passage (P) 5 Hay Point-Sth (Y4) 19

Cairns (P1) 5 High Peak (Z) 18

Mourilyan (Q1) 18

Mariners are reminded of the duty, only if practical, under the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS)Convention provisions to maintain a continuous listening watch on VHF radio channel 16

while at sea and for a radio watch to be maintained for broadcasts of MSI on the

appropriate frequency or frequencies on which such information is broadcast for the area

in which they are navigating.

5.3 Alternative CommunicationsIf for any reason communication is not possible via Inmarsat C or the appropriate VHF

radio channel, the required information must be passed by alternative means to REEFVTS

using one of the following:

a) Other INMARSAT phone/fax/telex service;

b) Other (non-Inmarsat) satellite phone/fax/ telex service.

Contact details for REEFVTS are:

Telephone +61 7 4956 3581

Facsimile +61 7 4956 3367

Telex +7146483

Email: [email protected]

Any failure of a ships radio equipment that prevents the communication of required

reports by either primary or alternative communication means is to be recorded in the

ships radio log book or the Official Log Book.


13/33

5HHI9768VHU0DQXDOQG(GLWLRQ 3DJH

$,69HVVHOVDUHUHTXHVWHGWRHQVXUHWKDWWKHLU$,6LQIRUPDWLRQLVXSGDWHGEHIRUHHQWHULQJWKH

5(()976DUHD:KHQVHWWLQJDVKLSVQDPHLQDQ$,6WUDQVFHLYHUGRQRWLQVHUW09RU07

SULRUWRWKHVKLSVQDPH)ROORZLQJWKLVDGYLFHZLOOHQKDQFHWKHXVHIXOQHVVRI$,6

LQIRUPDWLRQDW5(()976

)LJXUH0DQGDWRU\5HSRUWLQJ3RLQWVDQGDVVRFLDWHG9+)FKDQQHOV


14/33


6 Ship Reporting ObligationsThe following reports must be provided to REEFVTS:

a) Pre-Entry Position Report;

b) Entry Report;

c) Route Plan Report, if route details have not been provided in the Entry Report;

d) Route Deviation Report, where applicable;

e) Intermediate Position Reports;

f) Defect Reports, where applicable;

g) Final Report.

6.1 Pre-Entry Position ReportA Pre-Entry position report must be made in respect of a ship at least two hours prior to:

a) Entering the REEFVTS area;

b) Departing from a port within the REEFVTS area.

The following information must be provided in the Pre-Entry position report:

Line Information Required ExampleA Ship name, Call sign and IMO number A/HAPPY SAILOR/

ABCD/1234567

B Date and Time (UTC) B/010200UTCC Current position (latitude and longitude)

or where vessel is departing a port, the port name.

C/1036S/14144E

H Date, Time (UTC) and Point of Entry to REEFVTS area.Point of entry can be provided as the name of the firstMandatory Reporting Point upon entry to the REEFVTSarea, or position (latitude and longitude) if not enteringin the vicinity of a Mandatory Reporting Point.

H/010400UTC/BOOBY

K Date, Time (UTC) and Point of Exit from the REEFVTSarea.Point of exit can be provided as the name of finalMandatory Reporting Point, or position (latitude andlongitude) of anticipated exit from the REEFVTS area.

K/041300UTC/HIGH PEAK

M Communication MethodsPrimary Inmarsat C details (including Inmarsat C MobileNumber (IMN), manufacturer and model).

M/450111333/JRC /JUE-75C

Note: Mariners are requested to ensure that the vessels Inmarsat C terminal is logged intothe Pacific Ocean Region (POR).


15/33


6.2 Entry ReportAn Entry Report must be made in respect of a ship as soon as it:

a) Enters the REEFVTS area;

b) Departs from a port within the REEFVTS area.

This report covers a ships details, and its intentions and passage through the REEFVTSarea. Where some information has been previously provided to AUSREP the fields

highlighted with an ** are not required.

Ships masters are encouraged to provide a route plan (see section 6.3 for more detail)

when providing an Entry Report. However, it is understood that for some ships this may not

be possible until a pilot boards.

If the required passage details are supplied using one of the methods described in section

6.3, then it will not be necessary to provide a separate route plan report within an hour of

entering the REEFVTS area.

The following information must be provided in the Entry Report:


ABCD/1234567

B Date and Time (UTC) B/010400UTCC Current Position

Name of Mandatory Reporting Point, or position(latitude and longitude) if not in the vicinity of aMandatory Reporting Point.

C/BOOBY

F SpeedShips anticipated average speed until next report inknots & tenths of a knot) or estimated time of arrival(ETA) at next Mandatory Reporting Point.

F/13

J Pilot **Pilotage details including whether a coastal pilot is onboard (indicate Yes or No) and if so, the pilots lastname and licence number.

J/NO

orJ/YES/BROWN/9876543

K Date, Time (UTC) and Point of Exit from the REEFVTSareaPoint of exit can be provided as the Name of finalMandatory Reporting Point, or position (latitude and

longitude) of anticipated exit from the REEFVTS area.


L Route InformationRoute Plan (see section 6.3) or, if that is not availablename of next two Mandatory Reporting Points or courseif not tracking between reporting points.

L/INNER ROUTE DEEP

orL/ALPHA NORTH VIAVARZIN PASSAGE/HANNIBAL

O Draught**Draught fore and aft (in metres and decimetres).

O/FORE 11.5/AFT 11.3

P Cargo on Board**If required, may be passed by non-voice means prior to

the first REEFVTS report. Details to include normalname of the cargo and whether cargo is classified ashazardous (indicate Yes or No).

P/BULK CHEMICALS/DGYES

Q Defects, damage, deficiencies or other limitations Include details as required.


16/33


Line Information Required ExampleU Ship Size and Type**

Ship description details including ship type, length(metres) and gross tonnage.

U/TANKER/180/28000

X RemarksAny additional information, which would contribute tothe navigational safety of other shipping in the REEFVTS

area, should also be reported, where possible.

Include details as required.

** These items need not to be reported by a ship that has provided these details

previously in a sailplan report to AUSREP.

6.3 Route PlanRoute plan details are to be provided by one or more of the following ways:

i. Standard Route Plan;

ii. Mandatory Reporting Points;

iii. Waypoints.

If a Route Plan is not included in the Entry Report, then a route plan report must be

provided within one hour of a ships entry into the REEFVTS area, or departure from a port

within the REEFVTS area.

6.3.1 Standard Route PlanStandard route plans have been developed to enable the communication of intended

routes. Standard routes are based on the name of the route taken (e.g. Inner Route or the

Great North East Channel), vessel draught, Mandatory Reporting Points and, where there

are two or more recommended routes between Mandatory Reporting Points, the names of

the alternative legs between these.

Route plan tables and associated chartlets for the Inner Route and the Great North East

Channel are detailed in Section 7.

For a ship using a standard route plan, the following information must be provided:


ABCD/1234567


Name of Mandatory Reporting Point, or current position(latitude and longitude) if not in the vicinity of aMandatory Reporting Point.

C/BOOBY

F SpeedShips anticipated average speed (in knots and tenthsof a knot) or estimated time of arrival (ETA) at finalMandatory Reporting Point or position of exit from theREEFVTS area.

F/13

K Date, Time (UTC) and Point of Exit from the REEFVTSareaPoint of exit can be provided as the name of finalMandatory Reporting Point, or position (latitude andlongitude) of anticipated exit from the REEFVTS area.



17/33


Line Information Required ExampleL Route Information

Standard Route: For example, a south bound deepdraught ship entering at Booby and departing via HighPeak can simply provide the route plan as: Inner Route,Deep draught. Similarly, where it is intended to deviatefrom a predefined standard route plan (e.g. transit viaHeath) the route plan can be communicated simply as:

Inner Route, Deep draught via Heath.

L/INNER ROUTE DEEP

And where there arealternatives:

L/INNER ROUTE DEEP VIA

HEATH

6.3.2 Mandatory Reporting PointsRoute plans can be provided using the mandatory reporting points as a vessel progresses

through the REEFVTS area. When a vessel reports at a mandatory reporting point, the next

two mandatory reporting points need to be provided to REEFVTS. Where there are two or

more recommended routes between mandatory reporting points, the names of the

alternative legs between these are to be provided (eg. Mandatory Reporting Point X to

Mandatory Reporting Point Y via ZZZ).

The following information must be provided when a ship is providing a route plan using themandatory reporting points:


ABCD/1234567


Name of Mandatory Reporting Point, or current position(latitude and longitude) at that position if not in thevicinity of a Mandatory Reporting Point

C/BOOBY

F SpeedShips anticipated average speed (in knots and tenthsof a knot) or estimated time of arrival (ETA) at the nexttwo Mandatory Reporting Points.

F/13

K Date, Time (UTC) and Point of Exit from the REEFVTSareaPoint of exit can be provided as the name of finalMandatory Reporting Point, or position (latitude andlongitude) of anticipated exit from the REEFVTS area.


L Route InformationName of next two Mandatory Reporting Points or course

if not tracking between reporting points.Where there are two or more recommended routesbetween Mandatory Reporting Points, the proposedroute (for example, Mandatory Reporting Point Booby(D) to Mandatory Reporting Point Alpha North (F) viaVarzin Passage).

L/ALPHA NORTH VIAVARZIN PASSAGE/HANNIBAL

6.3.3 WaypointsThe use of non-standard routes is accommodated, using a list of intended waypoints in the

format of latitude and longitude of the proposed waypoints, mandatory reporting points, or

a combination of both.


18/33


The following information must be provided:


ABCD/1234567

B Date and Time (UTC) B/010400C Current Position

Name of Mandatory Reporting Point, or current position(latitude and longitude) at that position if not in thevicinity of a Mandatory Reporting Point.

C/BARNARD

orC/1742S/14618E

F SpeedShips anticipated average speed in knots and tenths ofa knot) or estimated time of arrival (ETA) at the position(latitude and longitude) of anticipated exit from theREEFVTS area or at the final Mandatory Reporting Point.

F/13

L Route InformationList of intended waypoints for the transit, using actuallatitude and longitude of the proposed waypoints, the

mandatory reporting point names, or a combination ofboth.

Where there are two or more recommended routesbetween Mandatory Reporting Points, the proposedroute (for example, Mandatory Reporting Point Booby(D) to Mandatory Reporting Point Alpha North (F) viaVarzin Passage.

Include details as required

6.4 Mandatory Reporting Points - Interaction with REEFVTSThe requirement for vessels to report at the Mandatory Reporting Points is dependant on

the type of route plan provided by the vessel. In summary:

If a standard route plan (Section 6.3.1) is provided and intermediate position reporting

is via APR (Section 6.6), reporting to REEFVTS at the Mandatory Reporting Points is not

required.

If a Mandatory Reporting Point Plan (Section 6.3.2) is provided for the entire transit

including alternate sections (if applicable), and intermediate position reporting is via

APR (Section 6.6), reporting to REEFVTS at the Mandatory Reporting Points is not

required.

However, if only partial route information is provided, vessels must report to REEFVTS

at the Mandatory Reporting Points to provide subsequent route information.

Note: The minimum route information that must be provided under the MandatoryReporting Point plan (Section 6.3.2) is the current Mandatory Reporting Point and the

subsequent two Mandatory Reporting Points, including any alternate routes.

6.5 Route Deviation ReportAny deviation from a previously submitted route plan must be provided to REEFVTS,

preferably prior to the deviation. However, it is recognised that some deviations may be

made with little notice and in such instances these must be reported to REEFVTS within 15

minutes of the deviation taking place.

The deviation is to be reported and a route plan report provided using one of the reports in

section 6.3.


19/33


6.6 Intermediate Position ReportsAPR via Inmarsat-C is the primary mechanism for ships to provide Intermediate Position

Reports. REEFVTS will generally carry out APR remotely without any intervention by a

ships crew.

Note: Mariners are requested to ensure the vessels Inmarsat C terminal is logged into thePacific Ocean Region (POR).

Ships fitted with first generation Inmarsat-C terminals that do not support remote

programming, will be required to be programmed onboard for Intermediate Position

Reports to be sent automatically. Instructions relating to programming of these terminals

can be obtained from REEFVTS. When exiting the area ships fitted with first generation

Inmarsat-C terminals should ensure that Automated Position Reporting has been stopped.

Ships providing Intermediate Position Reports via APR must still comply with the other

REEFVTS reporting requirements of Pre-Entry position reports, Entry report, Route Plan

report (if appropriate), Route Deviation report (if appropriate), Defect report (if

appropriate), and Final report.

If a ship is unable to provide intermediate position reports via APR, brief position reports

must be provided on an hourly basis or as advised by REEFVTS with the following

information:


ABCD/1234567


Name of Mandatory Reporting Point, or currentposition (latitude and longitude) if not in the vicinity ofa Mandatory Reporting Point.

C/BARNARD

orC/1742S/14618E

6.7 Defect ReportSafety related reports must be provided without delay in the event of a ship suffering

damage, failure or breakdown affecting the safety of a ship, or if a ship makes a marked

deviation from a route, or changes a course or alters speed from that previously advised.

Reports of pollution or cargo lost overboard must also be reported to REEFVTS without

delay using lines Q and R, or special reports as defined by IMO for incidents involving

Dangerous Goods (DG), Harmful Substances (HS) or Marine Pollutants (MP).

Defect reports require the following information:


ABCD/1234567



C/TWO ISLES

orC/15252S/145241E

F SpeedShips anticipated average speed until next report inknots & tenths of a knot) or estimated time of arrival(ETA) at next Mandatory Reporting Point.

F/5


20/33


Line Information Required ExampleQ Defects, damage, deficiencies or other limitations

Description and details of any damage, failure orbreakdown suffered:

(i) collision, grounding, fire, explosion, structuralfailure, flooding, cargo shifting;

(ii) failure or breakdown of steering gear, propulsion

plant, electrical generating system, essentialshipborne navigational aids.


R Pollution / dangerous goods lost overboardBrief details of type of pollution (oil, chemicals etc.) ordangerous goods lost overboard. Position to beexpressed as in item C.


X RemarksAny additional information, which would contribute tothe navigational safety of other shipping in theREEFVTS area, should also be reported, wherepossible.

This may include details of any Safety Messages(navigational safety, abnormal weather, unserviceableaids to navigation) or DG, HS, MP incident reportsusing the recognised IMO reporting formats.


6.8 Final ReportA Final Report must be made in respect of a ship:

a) When exiting the REEFVTS area;

b) Arriving at a port within the REEFVTS area.

Upon exiting the REEFVTS area it is necessary to indicate whether the ship intends

continuing to report to AUSREP for the remainder of its voyage and, if so, the time of its

next report or, if arriving at a port within the area, whether this is its Final Report to

AUSREP.

The following information must be provided in the Final Report:

Line Information Required ExampleA Ship name, call sign and IMO number A/HAPPY SAILOR/

ABCD/1234567



C/HIGH PEAK

X RemarksAny additional information, which would contribute tothe navigational safety of other shipping in theREEFVTS area.

Indicate whether the ship intends-

Continuing with AUSREP (indicate Yes or No) and, ifaffirmative, date and time (UTC) of next AUSREPposition report.

Arriving at a port within the REEFVTS area, advise ifthis report is also an AUSREP Final Report (indicateYes or No).

Include relevant details

For example:

X/YES AUSREP NEXTREPORT 051320UTC

orX/YES AUSREP FINALREPORT

orX/NOT AUSREP


21/33


6.9 Summary of REEFVTS ReportsThese key fields need to be provided for following REEFVTS Reports:

PER Pre-Entry Report

ER Entry Report

RP1 Route Plan Standard Route Plan

RP2 Route Plan Mandatory Reporting PointsRP3 Route Plan Waypoints

DR Deviation Report (if applicable)

PR Intermediate Position Reports

IR Defect Report (if applicable)

FR Final Report

Line Information Required PER ER RP1 RP2 RP3 DR PR IR FRA Ship name, call sign and

IMO numberR R R R R R R R R

B Date and Time (UTC) R R R R R R R R RC Current Position R R R R R R R R RF Speed R R R R R R RH Date, Time (UTC) and

Point of Entry to REEFVTSarea

R

J Pilot RK Date, Time (UTC) and

Point of Exit fromREEFVTS area

R R

L Route Information R R R R RM Communication Methods R I I O Draught RP Cargo on Board R Q Defects, damage,

deficiencies or otherlimitations

I I

R Pollution / dangerousgoods lost overboard

I

U Ship Size and Type RX Remarks I I I I I I I I I

Where R = Required, I = If appropriate.

A summary of the reporting requirements is provided in Figure 3.


22/33


Figure 3. Summary of reporting requirements

Pre-Entry Position ReportReport required 2 hours prior to entering the REEFVTS area or leaving

Lines: A, B, C, H, K, M

Entry ReportReport required when vessel enters the REEFVTS area or departs fromport.Where a standard route plan is known this can be advised in line L ifknown at time of entry.

Lines: A, B, C, F, J**, K, L, O**, P**, Q*, U**, X** If appropriate

** Items need not be reported if provided in AUSREP Sail Plan

Route Plan ReportProvide a route plan report, either:

x Standard route plan

x Progressively at Mandatory ReportingPoints

Deviation Report

Lines: A, B, C, F, L

Has Route Plan Report been provided with Entry Report?

YES NO

Has ship deviated from previous Route Plan Report provided?

NO YES

Final ReportReport required when vessel exits theREEFVTS area or arrives at a port within the

area.

Lines: A, B, C, X

YES NO

Intermediate Position ReportsPosition Reports are required hourly or as

otherwise advised by a VTSO.

Lines: A, B, C, F

Defect Report required

Has ship suffered from any defects or observed an incident?

NO YES

Lines: A, B, C, F, Q*, R*, X**As appropriate or submit special IMO

reports; Dangerous Goods, Harmfulsubstances or Marine Pollutants reports.

Is the ship sending position reports by APR via Inmarsat C?


23/33


7 Standard Route PlansThis section provides a guide to assist ships to communicate standard route plans to

REEFVTS.

The longest possible routes that may be used to transit the Inner Route or the Great North

East Channel are shown in the following figures. They are designed to be multi-directionalwith the routes building from the location at which a ship enters and exits the REEFVTS

area. Therefore, the standard route plan can be used to describe a ships entire route plan

or a portion of its transit within the area.

All mandatory reporting points within the REEFVTS area are represented in bold capital

letters (eg BOOBY). Where there are two or more alternatives to the recommended routesthese are represented in italics (eg Via Fairway Channel) and in some cases they may also

be mandatory reporting points (eg Via HEATH).7.1 Ships transiting the Inner Route

Ships transit the REEFVTS area based on predefined routes that are related to the vessels

draught. Standard Route Plans have been categorised into three draught based routes of

The predefined route for a particular draught is represented by a series of shaded legs

from Booby to High Peak. Where a ship is not varying from a predefined route then the

route can be easily communicated as Inner Route, Deep draught

If it is necessary to deviate from a predefined route, this can be communicated to REEFVTS

by stating the name of the alternative leg(s). For example, a deep draught transit via Heath

would be communicated as Inner Route, Deep draught via Heath.

The standard route plan should be communicated to REEFVTS by stating:

i. Inner Route;

ii. Predefined route by communicating the ships draught of Deep, Moderate or Shallow;

iii. The name of any alternative legs intended to be taken that vary from the standard

route (eg shaded boxes) for that draught category.

When approaching or leaving the ports of Hay Point or Mackay there is a choice of three

Peak will not use these legs unless the ship is approaching or leaving from Hay Point orMackay.

Mariners can contact REEFVTS at any time to advise any changes to route plans.

Deep (Figure 4), Moderate (Figure 5) and Shallow (Figure 6).

alternate legs; West of St Bees, East of St Bees or Three Rocks as shown in Figures 4, 5 or

6. These alternate legs have not been shaded, as a ship entering or exiting through High


24/33


7.1.1 Inner Route - Deep DraughtThe predefined standard route for a deep draught ship entering at Booby and departing via

High Peak is shown in Figure 4.

If it is intended to take the deep draught predefined route, this can be communicated to

REEFVTS as Inner Route, Deep Draught.

Similarly, if it is intended to deviate from the predefined route plan (eg. to transit via Heath)

the route plan can be communicated simply as Inner Route, Deep Draught, Via Heath.

Figure 4 Inner Route, Deep Draught

BOOBY

Via Varzin PassageVia Gannet Passage

Via ALPHA NORTHVia ALPHA SOUTH

Via East of CairncrossVia West of Cairncross

HANNIBAL

INSET

Via Fairway ChannelVia HEATH

PIPON

Via Howicks(Nth Channel)Via Miles

Via PalfreyVia Mid-Decapolis Via North of NymphVia Petherbridge

TWO ISLES

Via GUBBINS EASTVia GUBBINS WEST

BARNARD

Via BOWLING NORTHVia BOWLING SOUTH

Via EDWARDVia MOLLE/SHAW

Via East of St BeesVia West of St Bees Via Three Rocks

HIGH PEAK

Entry/Exit Points Entry/Exit Points

GRAFTON PASSAGE

PALM PASSAGE

BLOSSOM

CAPE FLATTERY

HAYPOINT

MACKAY

ABBOT POINT

TOWNSVILLE

LUCINDA

MOURILYAN

CAIRNS


25/33


7.1.2 Inner Route - Moderate DraughtThe predefined standard route for a moderate draught ship entering at Booby and

departing via High Peak is shown in Figure 5.

If its intended to take the moderate draught predefined route this can be communicated to

REEFVTS as Inner Route, Moderate Draught.

Similarly, if its intended to deviate from the predefined route plan (eg. to transit via

Howicks and North of Nymph) the route plan can be communicated simply as Inner Route,

Moderate Draught, Via Howicks and Via North of Nymph.

Figure 5 Inner Route, Moderate draught

BOOBY


Via ALPHA NORTHVia ALPHA SOUTH


HANNIBAL

INSET


PIPON



TWO ISLES


BARNARD




HIGH PEAK


GRAFTON PASSAGE

PALM PASSAGE

BLOSSOM

CAPE FLATTERY

HAYPOINT

MACKAY

ABBOT POINT

TOWNSVILLE

LUCINDA

MOURILYAN

CAIRNS


26/33


7.1.3 Inner Route - Shallow DraughtThe predefined standard route for a shallow draught ship entering at Booby and departing

via High Peak is shown in Figure 6.

If its intended to take the moderate draught predefined route this can be communicated to

REEFVTS as Inner Route, Shallow Draught.

Similarly, if its intended to deviate from the predefined route plan (eg. to transit via West of

Cairncross) the route plan can be communicated simply as Inner Route, Shallow Draught,

Via West of Cairncross.

Figure 6 Inner Route, Shallow draught

BOOBY


Via AVia ALPHA SOUTH


HANNIBAL

INSET


PIPON



TWO ISLES


BARNARD




HIGH PEAK


GRAFTON PASSAGE

PALM PASSAGE

BLOSSOM

CAPE FLATTERY

HAYPOINT

MACKAY

ABBOT POINT

TOWNSVILLE

LUCINDA

MOURILYAN

CAIRNS


27/33


7.2 Inner Route Chartlets


28/33



29/33



30/33



31/33


7.3 Vessels transiting the Great North East (GNE) ChannelVessels transiting the Great North East Channel enter or exit the REEFVTS area in three

main locations. These are Booby, Bramble or Daru.

It is necessary to state the first and second intended leg for transits through the Great

North East Channel. For example, a ship enters at Booby and exits at Bramble, the first leg

is via Varzin Passage and the second leg is via West of Coconut Island. This would becommunicated to REEFVTS as GNE, Via Varzin and West of Coconut Island.

In Varzin and Gannet Passages ships are generally restricted by their draught. As a guide,

deep draught ships normally transit through the Varzin Passage. Moderate and shallow

draught ships normally transit through Gannet Passage.

The standard route plan should be communicated to REEFVTS by stating:

i. GNE Channel

ii. The first set of alternative legs intended to be taken, and

iii. The second set of alternative legs intended to be taken.

BOOBY


TWIN

Via East of Coconut Is.Via West of Coconut Is.

DARUBRAMBLE

Figure 7 Standard routes for GNE Channel


32/33


7.4 Great North East (GNE) Channel Chartlet


33/33

Summary of Reporting Requirements

Entry ReportReport required when vessel enters the REEFVTS area or departs fromport.Where a standard route plan is known this can be advised in line L if

known at time of entry.

Pre-Entry Position ReportReport required 2 hours prior to entering the REEFVTS area or leaving

Lines: A, B, C, H, K, M

Route Plan ReportProvide a route plan report, either:

x Standard route plan

x Progressively at Mandatory ReportingPoints

Deviation Report

Lines: A, B, C, F, L

Has Route Plan Report been provided with Entry Report?

YES NO

Has ship deviated from previous Route Plan Report provided?

NO YES

Final ReportReport required when vessel exits theREEFVTS area or arrives at a port within the

YES NO

Intermediate Position ReportsPosition Reports are required hourly or as

otherwise advised by a VTSO.

Lines: A, B, C, F

Defect Report required

Has ship suffered from any defects or observed an incident?

NO YES

Lines: A, B, C, F, Q*, R*, X** As appropriate or submit special IMO

Is the ship sending position reports by APR via Inmarsat C?

Lines: A, B, C, F, J**, K, L, O**, P**, Q*, U**, X** If appropriate

** Items need not be reported if provided in AUSREP Sail Plan

Documents

PDF Reefvts User Manual v2