Dongara Marine awarded $1.35m State Government contract to build two vessels for Department of Transport

A local marine construction company has been awarded a $1.35 million contract with the State Government to produce patrol vessels for the Department of Transport. Dongara Marine has secured another Government contract, with last Thursday’s announcement of their involvement in the production of two new vessels for the compliance and education patrol fleet. As part of the contract, 8m and 7m performance patrol vessels will be built in Geraldton at the Dongara Marine base, in the port precinct. Assisting Transport Minister David Michael said: “It’s particularly pleasing that a regional WA company will deliver the upgrades to DoT’s patrol fleet as it will create wealth for the Mid West economy and support ongoing job opportunities. “The design of the new vessels, with soft sides, provides easier interaction with other craft minimising potential damage in bad conditions and they’re easier to launch and retrieve, making them perfect for conducting remote patrols and rescue missions.” Both vessels will be able to be transported by trailer, powered by twin 250 and 175 horsepower outboard engines and capable of travelling at more than 40 knots. The vessels are designed to meet the construction, stability and safety standards for operations up to 30 nautical miles off the coast and will be used for different purposes across DoT, including emergency environmental response. Thermal imaging technology will be part of the navigation system for one of two new vessels, providing improved search and rescue ability when supporting WA Police. The new navigation technology is also being introduced to an existing patrol vessel currently being upgraded by Dongara Marine, following a $1.8m contract in 2023 for refurbishment of a number of vessels.