Program Overview
Birdon was contracted to deliver a life-of-type extension program for eight First Fleet Ferries for Transdev Sydney Ferries. Golden Grove was the first vessel in the series to undergo refurbishment at Birdon’s Port Macquarie shipyard, serving as the prototype for the seven sister ships that followed. Each vessel completed the same scope of works over an approximate 8–12 week period.
Originally built in 1985, Golden Grove is a 25.4-metre catamaran ferry with a passenger capacity of approximately 393. The vessel was selected as the prototype for a new generation of upgraded ferries, setting the benchmark for the refurbishment program across the fleet.
Quick Facts
- Client
Transdev Sydney Ferries for Transport for NSW
- Location
Port Macquarie, NSW
- Lifecycle Stage
Maintain – Life of type extension
- Vessel Details
First Fleet Class Catamaran | Length: 25.4 m | Capacity: ~393 passengers
- Timeline
Golden Grove started Oct 2019, final ferry; Supply, completion, December 2022.
Objectives
- Extend the operational life of the First Fleet-class ferries
- Improve passenger experience and safety
- Modernise systems to meet current maritime standards
- Serve as a prototype for future refurbishments in the fleet
Challenges
- Integration of modern systems into a 1980s-built vessel
- Ensuring minimal disruption to ferry services during refurbishment
- Meeting stringent safety and environmental compliance standards
- Coordinating with multiple stakeholders including Transdev and Transport for NSW
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon executed a full internal and external overhaul of the Golden Grove, delivering structural, mechanical and system upgrades across the vessel.
Structural and cosmetic works included a full interior strip-out, hull blasting, installation of new flooring, seating, ceilings, stairs, balustrades, doors and windows, as well as complete repainting including antifoul hull coating and non-skid deck finishes.
Systems and equipment modernisation included replacement of lighting, sound and air conditioning systems, installation of new navigation and communication systems in the pilothouse, and in-house removal and installation of new engines, generator, sponsons and support systems. Propeller servicing and replacement were also completed.
Final commissioning included one week of survey and trials prior to acceptance by Transdev Sydney Ferries.
Outcomes & Impact
The project was delivered on time and within scope, significantly extending the operational life of the vessel into the next decade.
Passenger comfort and safety were enhanced through modernised systems and upgraded interiors, while the refurbishment established a benchmark for future First Fleet-class upgrades. The vessel was recognised for the quality and craftsmanship delivered through the program.
Capabilities in Action
- Vessel refurbishment and life-extension programs
- Structural, mechanical and systems upgrades across legacy vessels
- Sub-system integration including electrical, propulsion and onboard systems
- Customisation for passenger experience and operational performance
- Delivery in compliance with relevant safety, environmental and quality standards
