The Australian Antarctic Division has been advised of an engine room fire on board Australia’s chartered resupply vessel MPV Everest this afternoon.

The ice-strengthened ship is travelling home after resupplying Davis and Mawson research stations in east Antarctica.

MPV Everest on the Southern Ocean with icebergs in the background
MPV Everest in Antarctica Photo: AAD

All 109 expeditioners and crew on board the vessel are safe and there are no injuries. Families have been informed.

Just after 2pm on Monday 5 April, a fire was detected in the vessel’s port-side engine room. The fire was contained and extinguished.

The DP3 ice class multipurpose vessel has full redundancy in the on-board power systems. It is currently maintaining its course northwards using the starboard engine room.

MPV Everest is crossing the Southern Ocean, currently about 1700 nautical miles south of Perth, four days into a 14 day trip.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has been alerted. AMSA has contacted ships in the area to assist if required.

Further updates will be provided at 2pm, Tuesday 6 April.

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