Surgical masks wash ashore in Sydney after 40 containers lost overboard

Household appliances, building materials, and medical supplies including surgical masks have washed ashore on Sydney beaches after a container ship hit rough weather.

The APL England was en route to Melbourne from China when it lost 40 containers overboard. Another 74 containers were damaged on deck, with nine still hanging perilously over the sides of the ship as of Tuesday.

Locals in Bondi and Long Bay are helping to clear the coast of debris, but more waves of items are expected over the coming days.

The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is investigating the seaworthiness of the ship and whether it can be brought safely to port. There will then be an investigation of possible breaches of environmental pollution regulations.

There are concerns for local marine life due to the large amounts of plastic now in the water.

Source: The Guardian

Header image: Ri Butov