Newcastle Port Authority public affairs officer Keith Powell told International Longwall News that the salvage team was now conducting an onboard inspection of the vessel.

Salvage equipment comprising pumps, air compressors, air hoses, water hoses and generators are being lifted by helicopter to the vessel to assist in the inspection.

Powell said a salvage tug has also arrived from Sydney to assist the recovery efforts.

The Pasha Bulker coal carrier was beached at Nobbys Beach during gale force winds and high seas on Friday morning, prompting its 22 crew members to be airlifted from the vessel by helicopter.

So far, aerial inspections have found no visible pollution near the ship, which is carrying 700 tonnes of fuel oil, 34t of diesel and 40t of lube oil.

The vessel was due to enter the Port of Newcastle on June 12 to load 58,000t of coal.

Newcastle Port Corporation is working with the Australian Maritime Security Authority and regional, state and national authorities to recover the vessel.

Meanwhile, Port Waratah Coal Services said today that operations at both of its terminals have been severely disrupted due to the harsh weather off the coast.