Leeuwin Comments on ATSB’s Final Collision Report

Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation Welcomes Release of ATSB Final Report

The Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation (LOAF) has noted the release of the Australian Transport Safety Bureau’s final report regarding the incident that occurred on the morning of 30 August 2024, with a media release today.

Here’s our full report on the ATSB findings.

LOAF says the final report has allowed it to further understand the sequence of events of the collision, an incident which has had a significant impact on the STS Leeuwin II and the Foundation and has disrupted LOAF’s sailing schedule.

LOAF says it is grateful that the two crew who were on board and injured at the time of the incident are in the process of recovering. 

Crew (both ship and shore), volunteers and contractors have been working tirelessly behind the scenes to implement repairs to ensure the future of LOAF’s vital youth programs.

LOAF also extend a ‘heartfelt thank you’ to all involved, including Minderoo Foundation, Fremantle Ports and the SeaReady group of companies whose support has been instrumental in getting the ship back in the water.

LOAF’s current focus is to prepare the ship for a return to voyaging in 2026.

LOAF CEO Lawson Dixon commented:

“We are grateful to the ATSB for their thorough investigation which has allowed for a clearer understanding of the events that led to the accident. Likewise, we’re encouraged that Fremantle Ports moved swiftly to put in place appropriate protocols to help prevent any recurrence.”

 “The Leeuwin is now in the final stages of repair, and we’re looking forward to again serve the community of Western Australia in 2026.”

Here’s a much happier Leeuwin II upon her return to Freo’s inner harbour on Thursday, 24 October 2025.