Modern Ships 

Modern ships of Newcastle are mainly used for industrial transport. Large iron ships supported the steelworks in Newcastle until it was closed. These were owned by BHP and all had the word 'Iron' in the ship name, for example the 'Iron Prince'. Enormous collier ships still go to and from Newcastle, supporting the coal export trade. Although Newcastle harbour has been substantially altered to make it safer for these ships, wrecks still occur (such as the recent wreck of the Pasha Bulker).  Military ships also berth in Newcastle harbour, and can effect the access to the coal loaders in the harbour. For example, during World War II both Japanese and Australian submarines were seen in the harbour.