Woolgoolga 30: Enhancing Marine Rescue Operations in Northern New South Wales

Marine Rescue NSW has introduced the Woolgoolga 30, a state-of-the-art rigid inflatable boat (RIB), designed for efficient search and rescue (SAR) operations. Built by Yamba Welding and Engineering (YWE) in collaboration with Naiad Design, this vessel serves the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, replacing an older model that had been in service for over a decade.

Design and Specifications

Innovative Beach Launch Capabilities

The Woolgoolga 30, measuring 10 meters in length and 3.45 meters in beam, is specifically designed for beach launch and recovery operations. This capability is crucial in areas without accessible boat ramps, ensuring rapid deployment and retrieval, thus enhancing response times during emergencies.

These capabilities could also offer some challenges should difficult weather arise so it was important that we ensure the operating parameters were able to be met.

Power and Performance

Equipped with a powerful Cummins QSB6.7 inboard diesel engine and a Hamilton waterjet, the Woolgoolga 30 offers exceptional speed and maneuverability. This advanced propulsion system allows for tight turns and high-speed travel, significantly improving operational efficiency during rescue missions.

In combination with the beach landing capabilities it was important that we design an air flow system that didn't put the boat at risk. Knowing how it was to be used was a key factor in our design.

Mark laid out and designed a system that drew the cool fresh air in through air intake grilles in the front of the boat, ejecting the warm spent air out the rear over the transom. This means that the Woolgoolga does not compromise its capabilities at any point. 

Some Images in this post are thanks to Marine Rescue NSW.