First Cape Class Patrol Boat officially named Cape St George

15 March 2013

The Special Minister of State Gary Gray AO MP today represented the Minister for Home Affairs Jason Clare MP at the naming ceremony of Cape St George, the newest addition to Customs and Border Protection’s marine fleet.

Cape St George is a state-of-the-art 58.1 metre long Cape Class patrol boat equipped with new surveillance technology.

“The Cape St George is the next generation of patrol boats for Customs and Border Protection and a reflection of the Government’s commitment to protecting our borders,” Mr Clare said.

“The Cape Class vessels are almost twice the size of the existing Australian Customs and Border Protection Bay Class vessels and approximately three times the volume.” Mr Clare said.

“The Cape Class Patrol Boats will provide greater capability, endurance and range during operational patrols. These boats are specifically designed for their critical maritime law enforcement role,” Mr Clare said.

This vessel will now be put through a rigorous five-month operational trial. It will be undertaking patrols to test and evaluate its technology and equipment.

“Cape St George will be put through her paces over the next five months to ensure any necessary changes are made when we roll out the remaining seven Cape Class Patrol Boats,” Mr Clare said.

The asset will crewed by 18 highly trained Marine Unit Enforcement Officers.

The Cape Class Patrol Boats represent an improvement in Customs and Border Protection’s maritime capability and strengthen Australia’s national security framework and border protection regime.

“It is a highly advanced, sophisticated patrol boat that bolsters the current maritime surveillance and response program, setting a new benchmark in marine standards,” Mr Clare said.

The remaining seven Cape Class Patrol Boats contracted to be built by Austal are due to be operational by September 2015.

Media contact: Ryan Hamilton