Refitted Reef Ranger unveiled in Cairns following $2.9 million upgrade

Following an Australian-first refit at Rivergate, Reef Ranger has returned to the water, supporting rangers and researchers protecting the Great Barrier Reef.

The refitted Reef Ranger has been unveiled in Cairns following a $2.9 million upgrade delivered by the Australian and Queensland Governments.

Rivergate Marina and Shipyard General Manager Andrew Cannon said the project highlighted what can be achieved through collaboration between government and industry in delivering complex marine outcomes.

“The delivery of Reef Ranger demonstrates what can be achieved when new technology is integrated into an existing vessel through careful planning, technical expertise and collaboration,” he said.

The works, carried out by Rivergate in Brisbane, involved a six-month refit to integrate new propulsion, energy and emissions systems within the existing 24-metre catamaran.

Delivering the upgrade required significant reconfiguration of onboard systems, including a complete redesign of the engine room to accommodate new technology within the vessel’s existing footprint.

Operating for around 240 days at sea each year and travelling more than 12,000 nautical miles, Reef Ranger supports rangers and researchers across remote reef and island locations, including multi-day field operations and compliance activities.

Rivergate Marketing Manager Alex Binks and Marco Masio from Sea Power in front of the Reef Ranger in Cairns.

Federal Minister for the Environment and Water Murray Watt said the vessel would support essential operations across the Great Barrier Reef.

“There’s a lot of ocean to cover when caring for the Reef, and this vessel allows rangers and technical staff to carry out essential activities, including wildlife and ecosystem surveys, coral health assessments, compliance patrols and supporting infrastructure maintenance for visitors,” he said.

Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the vessel had long been a core operational asset for education, compliance and research on the Great Barrier Reef.

“The Reef Ranger has carried rangers and researchers to some of the most iconic places in the Great Barrier Reef, places like Raine Island, Wuthara and Hinchinbrook, helping communities protect the reef we all care about,” Mr Powell said.