PV22
Government agency returns for second 8.3 metre patrol boat
Completed in mid-2025 PV22 is the second near-identical patrol vessel that Dongara Marine has supplied to the Department of Transport and Major Infrastructure (DTMI). Its predecessor, PV21, was delivered in December 2022.
Announced in June 2024, the contract to supply the vessel reinforced Dongara Marine’s capability in delivering high performance vessels for government and commercial use. As part of the contract, Dongara Marine also built the 7.0-metre PV23.
Together, PV22 and PV23 provide DTMI with versatile patrol boats that are trailerable, powered by twin outboards, and capable of speeds above 40 knots. Both vessels now operate within DTMI’s Maritime Compliance and Investigation patrol vessel fleet, supporting a wide range of requirements.
PV22 is based in Fremantle but is deployable throughout Western Australia. Its primary role is marine safety compliance patrolling, with secondary functions that include oil spill response, deployment of containment boom, installation of marine signage and buoyage, and rigging operations.
Built to DTMI’s specification, the patrol boat was required to deliver strength, stability, performance, and durability in unsheltered West Australian waters. The proven Southerly Designs hullform achieves this, providing excellent seakeeping ability, a stable work platform underway and at rest, and the versatility to operate in shallow waters and perform regular beach landings.
The vessel features an enclosed wheelhouse, forward cuddy cabin, and aft work deck. Within the wheelhouse suspension seating, fold-down seats, and ample stowage deliver comfort and practicality, while raked windows ensure excellent visibility.
A key enhancement compared to PV21 is the inclusion of a FLIR M332 thermal imaging system, improving detection of vessels, people, and objects in low-light conditions. This technology strengthens DTMI’s capability for patrol duties and enhances support to WA Police in search and rescue operations. A Sanshin searchlight further extends night-time capability.
Other systems supplied and fitted by Geraldton Marine Electronics include dual 16-inch Simrad multi-function displays, HALO radar, and both depth/temperature and specialist transducer for real time imaging of underwater structures. TracPlus vessel tracking, satellite phone, VHF, 27MHz, and police digital radio provide robust connectivity for government operations.
Additional features include:
- Substantial towing capability for vessels and oil spill response equipment.
- A 760 litres per minute fire/salvage pump for firefighting and water transfer.
- A custom fold-down ladder for safe water entry and exit.
- A foam-filled D-collar to enable safe vessel-to-vessel contact.
Propulsion is provided by twin Mercury SeaPro outboards, delivering speeds above 43 knots.
Dongara Marine also supplied a custom aluminium boat trailer, built to DTMI’s specifications by specialist manufacturer Duralite Trailers.
“This patrol boat was the sixth 8.3 metre cabin RIB we’ve delivered in less than five years. Dongara Marine continues to implement incremental improvements and customisations to this successful design, demonstrating our expertise in producing custom aluminium boats for government, commercial, and recreational clients.”
Rohan Warr - Managing Director – Dongara Marine
