New Fleet
The NSW Police Force Marine Area Command has officially launched their new fleet of three fast-response multi purpose vessels in commitment to provide safer waterways.
Minister and Police welcome new fleet of fast response vessels for Marine Area Command
The NSW Police Force Marine Area Command has officially launched their new fleet of fast-response multi purpose vessels.
NSW Police Deputy Commissioner Catherine Burn and Acting Assistant Commissioner Mark Hutchings unveiled three new purpose-built vessels today (Monday 21 January 2013) as part of an ongoing commitment to provide safer waterways in NSW.
The 9.5m rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIB) were designed by Naiad Design in New Zealand and built by Yamba Welding and Engineering on the State’s North Coast.
Each vessel has two 250hp four-stroke outboard motors, with a contract speed of 45knots and a range of 200 nautical miles at 25knots, making them highly-manoeuvrable and are fitted with the latest navigation and communication equipment.
NSW Police and Emergency Services Minister, Michael Gallacher, said the NSW Government is committed to ensuring the police have the resources required to serve and protect the people of NSW whether on land or water.
“These vessels allow for multi-purpose responses, including high-visibility policing, search and rescue, medical evacuations and recovery, port and maritime security and general community policing,” Minister Gallacher said.
“They will allow Marine Area Command to better enforce and educate in areas such as vessel safety, speed, alcohol awareness and fisheries offences while out on the water.
“Marine-related crime is very serious and can be dangerous. We will continue to support police in their fight against this crime,” the Minister said.
NSW Police Force Deputy Commissioner, Catherine Burn, said the new fleet were purpose-built to the requirements of the NSW Police Force.
“Officers attached to our Marine Area Command contributed to the design, including the high-visibility markings, to improve manoeuvrability and response times,” Deputy Commissioner Burn said.
“The multi-purpose functionality of these RHIBs allows us to effectively and efficiently undertake proactive patrolling of high-density recreational and commercial boating areas.
“During busy periods on Sydney Harbour these vessels will enable us to provide a safer and more secure environment for all vessels.
“So, if you’re out on the water this Australia Day, you are guaranteed to see police on board these vessels conducting high-visibility patrols, random breath testing and compliance checks,” Deputy Commissioner Burn said.
To maximise the fast-response area and reduce deployment times, a vessel will be based at each office at Sydney (Balmain), Botany Bay and Broken Bay, with the ability to deploy as far north as Tweed Heads, and Eden to the south.
For more information about safe boating, including compliance information, please visit: http://www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/
