With the collaboration of more than 20 specialist shipmakers and maritime experts, a cutting edge marine response vessel was unveiled by Port Authority of NSW on February 20.
NAiAD, a 10 metre state-of-the art boat will reside at the Port Authority’s operational fleet in Sydney Harbour and Port Botany after it has been water tested.
The NAiAD will be utilised in navigation aid maintenance, pollution response, general patrols and response to a wide range of reporting.
Port Authority of NSW Acting Executive of Assets Catherine Blaine says the new vessel showcases the quality of shipbuilding skills in Newcastle and the Port Authority’s focus on investing in maritime assets to support maritime operations.
“Port Authority is proud that this build also supports regional jobs, apprenticeships and advanced capability, strengthening NSW’s maritime sector and demonstrating the value of retaining world-class skills in regional communities.”
“Our people have played a big role in the design and customisation of this vessel, ensuring it reflects the practical requirements, safety focus, and innovation that define Port Authority’s operations.”
The Whiskey Project Group CEO Darren Schuback says they are building world-class vessels in Newcastle through skill, precision and pride of their profession.
“The Whiskey Project Group is proudly building advanced maritime manufacturing capability that showcases the depth of talent in our community.”
“Every new NAiAD vessel represents real investment in high-skilled jobs, hands-on opportunities for apprentices and long-term careers in the maritime industry. We’re proud to be part of Newcastle’s manufacturing story and by backing local people, growing capability, we’re helping to secure Newcastle as one of Australia’s key manufacturing heartlands.”
While the NAiAD vessel performs the same tasks as other vessels in the fleet, it will feature upgraded technology to improve its efficiency, safety and performance.
These features include:
- A reinforced, marine-grade aluminium hull and level-flotation foam to maximise stability, buoyancy and safety at speed
- A collar system and high performance suspension seating to further reduce impact in rough conditions
- Integrated navigation and communications suite that delivers real-time situational awareness
- Twin 300 horsepower outboard engines that deliver speeds of up to 42 knots (approximately 77 kms per hour)
- 870 litre fuel capacity