NSW Police EOI for design and construct of class 8 hulled vessel

The NSW Police Force (NSWPF) has opened expressions of interest for the design and construction of class 8 hulled vessels which can be used in waters that are restricted from the sea, such as shallow waters or inland waterways. These class 8 vessels will be used for general marine policing in times of flood assistance, bush fire evacuation and search and rescue (nb the image is of 20 m Class 2 monohull NSWPF patrol vessels from another contract).

NSWPF Marine Area Command (MAC) currently has eight, Class 8 vessels attached to sectors from Tweed Heads in the North to Eden in the South.

MAC’s responsibility extends to all coastal areas of NSW to 200 nautical miles out to sea. NSW water police hold the distinction of being the first civilian form of policing established in NSW. In 1789, one year after the colony was founded, Governor Phillip created a ‘Row Boat Guard’ to patrol Sydney Cove for smugglers and convicts attempting to pass letters to ships anchored in the harbour.

The following are the requirements for the new class 8 hulled vessel:
🚤 Vessels to be made from aluminium
🚤 Vessel length to be 5.5 – 6 metres
🚤 Vessel will need to transport at least four personnel
🚤 Allow for coxswain to operate in sitting and standing positions
🚤 Provide a canopy so that all seated positions are shaded
🚤 Provide twin 4 stroke outboard engines—top speed of 35 knots
🚤 Fuel tank for a fuel capacity of 100Nm at 20kts
🚤 Provide a fully equiped aluminium trailer
🚤  Provide a warranty on both the hull and equipment

Prototypes or concept vessels will not be considered. The estimated value of the tender is between $800,000 and $1 million.

Tender is due on 14 October 2022. Madrigal Communications has experience in naval contracts.