Australian ports affected by bushfires need cruise ships, ACA says

Many regions remain unaffected

‘While the situation is constantly evolving as the bushfires continue to burn, we are pleased to report that many regions and tourism areas remain unaffected by the bushfires and continued visitation to these areas will play a vital role in supporting and reinvigorating local economies,’ Abel said.

She sent ACA’s gratitude to ‘all the frontline services who are working tirelessly in very challenging conditions’ and said ‘our thoughts and condolences go to all the families and communities impacted.'

Stranded firefighters rescued

She paid tribute to ACA members for their support, including Svitzer Australasia that gave shelter on its tugs during the critical situation on the New South Wales south coast and worked with the Rural Fire Service to pick up stranded firefighters and workers around Eden's Twofold Bay.

She said port members, including Tasports in Burnie, the Port of Melbourne Corporation and Flinders Port in Port Lincoln, had all received diverted cruise calls at short notice.

International crews hosted

Plaza Premium Lounges is hosting all international firefighting crews in their airport lounges and SeaLink is providing free ferry access to Kangaroo Island.

‘ACA is also working closely with our members in destination management such as Tourism Australia and the state tourism organisations, as well as CLIA, to monitor the situation and provide updates,’ Abels said.