- Westerberg Marine wins contract to design and construct new amphibious patrol vessel
- Albany subcontractors also engaged for the project
- Contract award an important boost for local manufacturing in Albany
- New amphibious patrol vessel purpose built for use in the Kimberley
Albany-based boatbuilder Westerberg Marine has won a $660,313 State Government contract to design and build a new amphibious patrol vessel for use in the Kimberley region.
A competitive tender process undertaken by the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI) attracted interest from local, interstate and international suppliers.
The contract will see five Western Australian-based subcontractors, including three from Albany, engaged to supply the seven-metre aluminium craft specially fitted with wheels at the bow and stern to allow for easier access to the ocean over the seashore at low tide.
To be based in Broome and used to patrol the Kimberley region, the amphibious vessel is better suited to the area's large tide ranges and will ensure officers can quickly respond to marine incidents and not be restricted in their work to check safety compliance on the water.
On land, the amphibious vessel will be powered by an internal petrol engine, and on the water, twin 250 horsepower outboard motors will propel it to a speed up to 45 knots. It also boasts state-of-the-art computer, navigation and radio equipment.
The new vessel, due for delivery next June, will replace the original amphibious patrol vessel dispatched to Broome.
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Awarding this contract to an Albany-based boatbuilder supports regional manufacturing, boosts the Great Southern economy and further strengthens the WA marine industry.
"The State Government's investment in the modernisation of its patrol fleet will support local manufacturing, as well as employment and training opportunities, including five apprentices who will be involved in the fabrication of the craft.
"The new vessel will also provide DTMI officers in the Kimberley with a purpose-built craft to monitor marine safety compliance and respond to emergencies throughout the year.
"On-water compliance patrols are an important part of the Government's commitment to marine safety education in the regions and the design of the amphibious vessel, which includes inflatable sides, makes it easier for officers to interact and talk to boat owners."
As stated by Samantha Rowe MLC:
"Westerberg Marine is a brilliant Albany-based company, and the award of this contract will support an important pipeline of work in the region.
"The company has a strong track record of supporting local subcontractors and providing training opportunities to apprentices, and this contract award will ensure that work continues."
