Program Overview
Birdon’s Dampier shipyard at the Toll Supply Base completed two key maintenance and repair periods for the Majun, a 32 m Rampart 3200CL tug owned by Cape Preston Port Company (CPPC), part of CITIC Pacific Mining.
The works were undertaken across two separate yard visits and have been consolidated into a single program reflecting Birdon’s ability to provide responsive support. The first visit focused on structural modifications and preventative maintenance, while the second involved corrective works to restore propulsion system functionality.
Quick Facts
- Client
Cape Preston Port Company (CPPC), part of CITIC Pacific Mining
- Location
Birdon Dampier Shipyard, Toll Supply Base
- Lifecycle Stage
Maintain – Repair
- Vessel
Majun – 32 m Rampart 3200CL Tug
- Timeline
Multiple visits (2023–2024)
Objectives
- Both dockings – to minimise vessel downtime and maintain operational readiness
Docking 1
- Undertake planned maintenance including coatings and seal replacement
- Deliver class-compliant tow staple modification and structural reinforcement
Docking 2
- Restore propulsion capability following thruster damage
Challenges
- Structural modification to critical towing components requiring class compliance
- Working below the waterline with coating and corrosion protection requirements
- Complex removal and rebuild of azimuth thruster systems
- Responding to unplanned damage in an operational port environment
- Coordinating multi-discipline trades within a remote WA shipyard
Birdon’s Approach
Birdon delivered a multi-stage scope spanning structural, mechanical and coating disciplines across both maintenance periods.
First visit – planned works:
Structural works included cutting and extending the tow staple by 600mm, supported by the insertion of underdeck stiffening to reinforce the structure. All fabrication and welding activities were completed to Lloyd’s standards.
Surface treatment works included preparation and repainting of the vessel below the waterline to address corrosion and marine growth.
Mechanical works included the replacement of thruster seals to ensure ongoing reliability of the propulsion system.
Second visit – corrective works:
Following ingestion of a tyre fender into the propulsion system, Birdon undertook full removal of the azimuth thruster. Internal components were inspected and replaced as required before the thruster was refitted and aligned to operational tolerances.
All works were delivered under controlled safety, environmental and permit-to-work systems.
Outcomes & Impact
- Successful delivery of both planned and unplanned maintenance scopes
- Restoration of full propulsion capability following significant equipment damage
- Structural upgrades completed in compliance with class requirements
- Reduced risk of future failure through proactive maintenance and reinforcement
- Continued client confidence through responsive and flexible service delivery
The combined works demonstrate Birdon’s capability to support both scheduled maintenance programs and rapid-response repair requirements within a single asset lifecycle.
Testimonial
“We were very satisfied with Birdon’s performance on this project. The job was delivered on time and on budget, with excellent attention to detail in the dock set-up and accuracy of the dock block arrangement. The Birdon team were helpful, positive, and professional throughout, and the office amenities were excellent. We’ll certainly be coming back for future projects.”
Pete Keel
Cape Preston Port Company
Capabilities in Action
- Structural fabrication and class-compliant modifications
- Azimuth thruster removal, overhaul and alignment
- Corrosion protection and below waterline coatings
- Mechanical maintenance and seal replacement
- Integrated delivery across planned and reactive maintenance scopes
- Remote shipyard operations with multi-trade coordination
