Located in Australia’s far north, approximately 500 km to the east of Darwin, in remote territory, lies the Crocodile Islands Group that consists of 6000 km2 of sea area within the region.

Managed by the Crocodile Islands Rangers based on Milingimbi Island, whose charter includes the effective management of a substantial area of land and sea.

In 2015 there was the need for a commercial vessel landing craft that supported the operations of the Rangers in managing this extensive area of sea; coastline; and mainland, as part of the Mariga Ocean Patrol.

These ocean patrol responsibilities meant there was a need for a commercial vessel that supported operations in a remote environment and between islands, and one that had deck carrying capacity.  This was to hold a backhoe, as well as transport vehicles and people between the mainland and the islands for work operations, cultural events or emergency evacuations.

A 12 metre commercial landing craft was then designed and built for The Crocodile Islands Rangers, designed to specifically address their needs in improving operations between the mainland and the islands.

Delivered on budget and on schedule, The Crocodile Islands Ranger’s vessel was designed to have the capacity to carry two four wheel drives, a backhoe, and 50 passengers.  With a cruising speed of 22 knots, the 2C/1D landing craft vessel survey was powered by twin 250 horse power Suzuki engines, a 5.5 metre wide beam and has a deck carrying ability of nine tonnes.

Damien Smith also designed the mooring for the vessel that was delivered and handed over to The Crocodile Islands Rangers who then steamed the 500km journey to Milingimbi.  A trailer was also provided by Alumarine to enable efficient handling at Milingimbi.