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Webb said speculation regarding the imminent refloating was unfounded and that it would not go ahead until all environmental conditions and operational planning and preparation had been completed.
“The planning of this refloating is a highly complex and involved process and the speculation that it would occur during the high tide on Monday June 18 is incorrect,” he said.
“The salvage team has filled the No. 4 hold with ballast water to hold the ship firmly in place and is currently progressing the relocation of fuels to the safer upper areas of the ship.”
Webb said the recovery plan also included land and marine environment recovery plans that will be implemented over the coming weeks to return the beach to the public.
The coal ship was grounded at Nobbys Beach, Newcastle on June 8 during gale force winds and high seas.
