Program Overview
Birdon was engaged by the Port Authority of New South Wales to construct two state-of-the-art firefighting vessels, “Burra” and “Girawa”, to enhance emergency response capability across Sydney Harbour and surrounding waters.
Built at Birdon’s Port Macquarie shipyard, the vessels significantly enhanced maritime firefighting and incident response capability, providing high-speed response in congested and challenging operational environments. The project also supported regional employment, local suppliers and sovereign shipbuilding capability in New South Wales.
Quick Facts
- Client
Port Authority of New South Wales
- Location
Port Macquarie (build); Sydney Harbour (deployment)
- Lifecycle Stage
Design and Build
- Asset
“Burra” and “Girawaa” firefighting vessels
- Timeline
Contract Signed April 2021; Delivery Completed January 2024
Objectives
- Deliver rapid-response firefighting vessels capable of operating in congested and shallow waters
- Enhance maritime safety and emergency preparedness in NSW ports
- Support regional manufacturing and job creation in Port Macquarie
Challenges
- Design for high-speed performance (27 knots) with shallow draft (0.8m)
- Integration of high-capacity firefighting systems (16,000 L/min pumping capacity)
- Compliance with AMSA NSCV 2C survey standards and complex regulatory requirements
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders including AMSA, Port Authority NSW, and local subcontractors
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon led the systems integration, construction and delivery of the firefighting vessels, bringing together propulsion, firefighting, navigation and control systems to meet the Port Authority’s operational requirements.
Working with Incat Crowther, who developed the naval architecture and vessel design, Birdon integrated complex vessel systems to deliver a highly capable emergency response platform for Sydney Harbour conditions. Throughout commissioning, Birdon worked closely with stakeholders to refine vessel performance and address engineering challenges as they emerged, ensuring operational readiness in service.
Outcomes & Impact
Both vessels were delivered on time and budget by January 2023, providing the Port Authority of New South Wales with the fastest response vessels ever commissioned for its operations.
Capable of projecting water over 90 metres, the vessels significantly enhance firefighting capability in hard-to-reach areas across Sydney Harbour and surrounding waters.
Capabilities in Action
Systems integration and vessel delivery for complex maritime firefighting operations. Key elements included:
- Integrated propulsion and firefighting systems, including Scania DI16-076M engines, HamiltonJet waterjets and Darley TSP 2000 fire pumps
- Dynamic positioning, 360° wheelhouse visibility, and enhanced fendering to maintain operational position and safety while firefighting systems operate at full force
- High-speed shallow draft performance, achieving 27 knots with 0.8m draft
- Integrated pollution control capability and monohull aluminium design optimised for speed, stability and shallow water access
- Delivery to AMSA NSCV 2C survey standards with certification and sea trial validation for safety and operational reliability
