Rivergate weathers the floods and is 'Business as Usual'

by Steve Fisher, Rivergate on 1 Feb 2011 Rivergate Marina and Shipyard sustained little damage during the recent floods in Brisbane, Australia and continued to operate throughout the disaster sheltering and saving vessels.

'The marina performed perfectly during the floods sheltering the vessels from debris. Our team worked tirelessly to ensure the integrity and safety of all of our client’s vessels,' explained General Manager of Rivergate, Mr Steve Fisher.

At the highest point of the flood waters, Rivergate did not submerge and many commercial vessels including a large part of the Brisbane City Council’s fleet of CityCats and Ferries took refuge in the marina. Maritime Safety Queensland and Queensland Water Police vessels also made use of the fuel wharf with Rivergate’s team being on hand for 72 hours straight for emergency refuelling.

'The design and location of Rivergate ensured that the flood waters continued down river and out to sea taking debris and potential hazards with them. It was in essence the safest place in the Brisbane River for a vessel to be,' continued Mr Fisher.

When in the development planning stages, Rivergate made the decision to increase the height on the riverbank and the piles for the marina. This decision ensured the integrity of the facility in conjunction with the disaster and redundancy measures established which included isolating power, engaging tug boats for on-call assistance, and lifting some vessels to the hardstand.

During the flood disaster, Rivergate’s staff saved a 42’ yacht which had broken from its mooring further upstream. Using the marina’s workboat, staff towed it to safety. The Dutch owners had rushed back from Holland anticipating the worst only to find their yacht safely secured at Rivergate.

'Thank you to all staff who worked so hard during the recent flood disaster. We praise your outstanding efforts to ensure the safety and security of the marina and boats,' commended long-time residents of the marina, Nick and Carmel Hall.

As Brisbane continues the clean up, Rivergate is assisting fleet and boat owners survey damage and make repairs.

More at www.rivergate.com.au