• Dongara Marine wins $1.35 million contract to build two new patrol vessels
• Craft to boost Department of Transport's safety compliance and education patrol fleet
• Improved navigation with thermal imaging technology being introduced

The Department of Transport's (DoT) compliance and education patrol fleet will be boosted by two new vessels to be built in the Mid West by Dongara Marine.

As part of the $1.3 million contract, eight-metre and seven-metre-high performance patrol vessels will be built, both 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 to be utilised for different purposes across DoT - including emergency environmental response.    

Thermal imaging technology will be part of the navigation system for one of two new state-of- the-art 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 the company, following the award of an $1.8 million contract last year for refurbishment of a number of vessels.

It's expected the upgraded vessel will rejoin the DoT fleet in October this year while the two new vessels are due for delivery by May next year, replacing craft about to be decommissioned.  

Comments attributed to Minister Assisting the Transport Minister David Michael:

"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.  

"These contracts will continue the modernisation of DoT's patrol fleet which is primarily responsible for monitoring marine compliance and providing education throughout the State but also enhance its emergency response role supporting sea search and rescue operations.

"The improved navigation systems on DoT vessels will see the use of a thermal imaging camera to enhance the chance of detecting a vessel, person or object in the water at night.

"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."

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

"I'm thrilled that a proud local company has been awarded this important contract, supporting jobs and boosting economic activity in Geraldton.

"It highlights the strong capabilities of businesses in the Mid West and the highly skilled nature of the workers those businesses employ."