Dongara Marine to construct patrol vessel

Dongara Marine has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract to build the Western Australian Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development’s new Large Patrol Vessel.

The $13.7 million vessel will have a longer fuel range to conduct extended voyages, low engine emissions, and improved living conditions compared to the existing 25-year-old PV Walcott.

It also features a more efficient hull design with twin keels to provide improved stability and reduced roll, the latest navigation equipment, and infra-red night vision to support search and research and night-time patrols.

The new 24 metre fisheries patrol vessel designed by WA naval architecture firm Southerly Designs will operate supporting the sustainability of WA’s fisheries.

Dongara Marine Managing Director Rohan Warr said: “The award of this project is great recognition for the work our staff, subcontractors, and suppliers have been doing building many different types of new vessels for government agencies, commercial operators, and private buyers.

“In addition to a highly capable patrol boat that will bring lasting benefits to fisheries compliance operations, that success will also be evident in employment, training, and economic benefits that will flow from its construction.”

Dongara Marine expects that Western Australian industry, including many suppliers and subcontractors based in the Mid West region, will be able to contribute to the project.

“We have a highly qualified and skilled workforce and supplier base in place but are always on the lookout for people and businesses who can add value to our projects and operations.”

Established in Port Denison in 1975, Dongara Marine opened a purpose-built shipyard in Geraldton earlier this year which employs over 60 staff.

The company expects to complete a total of 11 new vessels and two major refits this year.

Award of the contract was officially announced by the Western Australian Minister for Fisheries Don Punch, while visiting the Dongara Marine shipyard in Geraldton.

Picture: Dongara Marine