Serco has been selected for the design and build of a new freight vessel to support World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island’s critical freight needs for the next 40 years.
*example of proposed vessel design currently under review
The project, part of the NSW Government’s Lord Howe Island Critical Infrastructure Program, will deliver a fit-for-purpose vessel designed to meet stringent environmental and biosecurity standards, helping provide critical protection for the native plant, bird and insect species present.
As part of the project, Serco representatives recently visited Lord Howe Island to meet with the local community and share early information about the new freight vessel. The on‑island session brought together Serco’s project leadership team and delivery partner IMC Naval Architects, and NSW DCCEEW program managers, to outline the vessel’s design, capabilities, and construction timeline, and to answer questions directly from residents. This visit covered how the project will move from design into delivery, ensuring the vessel is well understood and built to support the island’s needs for generations to come.
The new vessel will ensure a reliable freight service for the island community, featuring roll-on roll-off and lift-on lift-off capability, with capacity for 35 ISO containers plus bulk items. The design prioritises environmental protection, biosecurity and operational efficiency, safe cargo operations, and minimising impacts on the island’s World Heritage environment.
Serco has a proven track record in maritime program management, having introduced 129 vessels into Australian government service, including the Antarctic Icebreaker, RSV Nuyina, for the Australian Antarctic Division.
Our solution is informed by the specialised, hands‑on expertise we have developed operating RSV Nuyina in extreme and bio-secure environments, embedding proven biosecurity controls and operational discipline from design through to delivery.
David Astbury, General Manager for Defence, Serco Asia Pacific, said winning this contract is a proud moment for Serco and represents our commitment to supporting Lord Howe Island’s future.
“This vessel will provide a vital freight lifeline for the community while meeting the highest standards of environmental protection and biosecurity,” Mr Astbury said.
“Our team’s experience in delivering complex maritime projects ensures we will deliver a vessel that NSW and Lord Howe Island can rely on for decades to come.”
“The project will also deliver broader economic and social benefits, including student placements for future maritime engineers, upskilling First Nations maritime capabilities, and engaging regional SMEs to maximise local industry participation.”
Serco Asia Pacific’s David Astbury (right of centre in the photo), Michael Lonsdale (centre) and IMC’s Justin McPherson (left of centre).
For more information, visit www.serco.com/aspac
