Just five months after the RFNS Puamau ran aground in the Fulaga Passage, its replacement, the RFNS Timo, has encountered challenges following a docking incident on Thursday at the Walu Bay Navy Pier. The Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division was ushering in the vessel from Australia when the mishap occurred.
The RFNS Timo, presented as a gift from the Australian government to replace the recently decommissioned RFNS Puamau, which was valued at $18 million, suffered minor damage to its port-side stern above the waterline during mooring operations. Commander of the Republic of Fiji Navy, Commodore Humphrey Tawake, attributed the incident to a combination of gusty winds and limited docking space, citing the presence of commercial vessels that restricted clearance.
While Commander Tawake did not dismiss the potential for unprofessional conduct among the crew, reports suggested that several crew members may have been under the influence at the time of the incident. In response, the Navy has detained those involved and initiated a formal investigation to uncover the full circumstances and identify any shortcomings.
Within 24 hours of the incident, Navy engineers promptly conducted a thorough assessment of the damage and began repairs, which are nearing completion. The RFNS Timo is expected to return to full operational status shortly. Furthermore, Commodore Tawake emphasized the Navy’s dedication to reviewing operational protocols and enhancing crew training to improve their practices and prevent future incidents.
He expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the Australian Government under the Vuvale Partnership, emphasizing the importance of this relationship. Despite the recent challenges, he reassured that the structural integrity of the RFNS Timo remains sound and it is fully operational.
This situation serves as a crucial reminder of the complexities involved in maritime operations and highlights the continuous need for improvement in training and discipline among the crew. It is a hopeful sign that the Navy is taking proactive steps to learn from this incident, indicating a commitment to enhancing safety and professionalism in future operations.
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