In an interim report, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) said the 13,500-dwt Singapore-flagged Ocean Drover (built 2002), owned by Wellard Ships, was berthed and preparing to load cargo when the blaze spread quickly.

Four seafarers sustained smoke inhalation requiring medical treatment; one being hospitalised for smoke inhalation and burns.

The accommodation areas and the ship’s navigation bridge were extensively damaged.