Someone will tell us about this vessel and what it may be strait shooting at?.
We have received so much good advice that it seems a shame not to display it all. Firstly our Maritime Architect offered:
"With all that rubber, it must be to buffer against another vessel in open waters. The rectangular frame on the stern probably supports some sort of fishing activity.
My assessment is that it is a fishing boat and possibly a long line tuna boat operating out of a Victorian port which is on Bass Strait."
Our (slightly) Ancient Mariner opined:
"I think mystery largely answered by going to the link below . As usual Master Mariner Derek is so close to right it dos'nt matter.
When you go to the site open the 3 pics accompanying image to get more general information.
Another site I was at about ship movements on Syd arb said it was here for some special work on it's bottom."
http://www.marinetraffic.com/ais/shipdetails.aspx?MMSI=503485600
This was followed by the concluding comments:
"After seeing Alan's research it is not fishing related (although it could get "fishy"!) and given that it is new, it may be a prototype for servicing Bass Strait oil rigs......like this one about 30 Km off Lakes Entrance (December 2007- It was a very clear and calm day)"
The pic referred to is being held until its best location is determined.