Lotterywest, Woodside fund New Murujuga Ranger vessel

By PETER ROWE

Production is underway for a new Murujuga Aboriginal Corporation vessel to support and manage the islands of the Dampier Archipelago.

The custom-built 5.8 metre, rigid-hulled inflatable boat, will be able to carry six people and is due to be delivered next year.

Funding for the vessel has come through Lotterywest, with a $204,232 grant towards the boat, a trailer and equipment and from oodside Energy, who have contributed $390,626 towards the boat, extra camera equipment and two years of operating costs.

“This funding has enabled MAC to do what the Elders have always wanted MAC to do, to look after sea country and islands, as well as the Burrup,” MAC Chairperson Peter Hicks said.

“MAC has done a lot of work on the islands, including heritage and environmental research and management; taking Elders and visitors out and in recent years, conducting rock art and air quality monitoring.”

Since their former vessel, the Topaz, was retired in 2022, rangers have relied on chartering vessels or partnering with other organisations to get out to the islands.

“The RHIB was chosen because it suits inshore waters, has good access on the bow for disembarking and unloading on beaches and it will meet the Rangers’ needs as they build their
boating skills.” Mr Hicks said.

“Five of the Rangers have completed coxswain training and are currently gaining sea hours to
secure coxswain certificates.”