Multipurpose carrier AAL Shipping has delivered its final shipment for the Wambo wind farm in Queensland, Australia.
AAL’s involvement in the project was split over two stages – the first began in 2023 with the transport of 42 wind turbines from China over nine sailings. The second stage was completed this year, with the AAL Genoa recently delivering the final shipment for the project.
In total, AAL completed 18 long-haul sailings – deploying vessels from its 31,000 dwt A-Class, 25,800 dwt G-Class and 19,000 dwt S-Class fleets – to transport 83 wind turbines. Cargoes were shipped from the ports of Dongzao, Lüsi, Tianjin and Taicang in China, with all components discharged at the port of Brisbane for further transport inland.
Each turbine comprised eight tower sections weighing up to 90 tonnes each; 80 m-long wind turbine blades; and other units weighing up to 76 tonnes.
Andrew Mangan, chartering manager at AAL Oceania, said: “Our engineering and operations teams have a proven track record with handling complex cargoes and [are] always open to exploring new ways of optimising cargo care and operational safety.
“On the wind blade shipments, we employed revolutionary synthetic lashing chains and slings made from a super-strong, lightweight fibre that resists abrasion and even floats on water. Unlike traditional steel chains – which can swing during lashing and risk damaging cargo – synthetic lashings significantly reduce that risk. Their light weight also improves crew safety and time efficiency, particularly when securing blades at height. We are now expanding the use of this technology in support of our customer operations.”
The 500 MW wind farm is located near Jandowae in the Western Downs of Queensland – a site chosen for its excellent wind resources and grid connectivity.
Last month, AAL welcomed its sixth Super B-class vessel, AAL Dammam, to its fleet.
