October 4 - At Guangzhou Shipyard International, steel cutting has started on Fairstar Heavy Transport's 50,000 dwt semi-submersible heavy transport ship Forte.

Willem OutFairstar managing director for Fleet attended the ceremony along with representatives of Det Norske VeritasGuangzhou Shipyard International (GSI) and China Shipbuilding Trading Company (CSTC).

Willem Out commented: "We have achieved our first milestone on schedule. Fairstar believes our partnership with GSI will reward our shareholders with a vessel that will enter service in 2012 on time and on budget.

"Our partners at the Chevron Australia Pty Ltd and Kellogg Joint Venture - Gorgon will be monitoring our progress carefully. Shipbuilding is a complex and challenging undertaking. We are confident that GSI is fully committed to make this project a success."