Published on 18 December 2025
One of the two Cargo Transfer Vessels (CTV’s), Oefi, was in the water this week unloading the cargo ship along with white boat.
It was pleasing to see Oefi in action after a long lead up period. The large workable deck space allows the crew onboard more safety as they are not working under suspended loads as the cargo is lowered into the transfer vessels from ship to shore. The larger workable deck space provides more room in the boats to not only take more cargo in one trip, but also providing space around each cargo item, which means less potential cargo damage.
There are a few minor adjustments required that will be undertaken on Oefi between now and the next cargo ship in February. The other CTV, Trumpi, will have the same minor adjustments made with the aim for Trumpi to also be in the water and unloading the February ship too.
The use of these vessels aids with ongoing sea freight reliability for the island. It also future-proofs the island to be able to carry 20-tonne 20-foot containers, with one of the benefits being to enable the export of some of the island’s waste in this manner. Their design includes removable bulwarks on the front and back to facilitate the carriage of longer cargo, such as roofing sheets or power poles.
These vessels were funded under a Commonwealth grant, they have passed their Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) survey, have undergone sea trials and familiarisation with the Lighterage team. Council thanks the Commonwealth for funding these custom-built vessels for Norfolk Island.
Image caption: Cargo being loaded into the CTV
Image caption: CTV being put into the water at Cascade Pier. Trumpi and Oefi were named by two twins, Phoenix and Jax Evans, in a school competition in 2024.