As we reflect on 2024, Birdon has much to celebrate. This year has been marked by significant milestones and activities strengthening our global presence and showcasing our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. Here are the highlights of our achievements across the business:
- Acquisition of Bayou La Batre Shipyard in Mobile, Alabama
On March 1, 2024, Birdon America Inc. acquired Metal Shark Boats’ 32-acre shipyard in Bayou La Batre, Alabama. This acquisition has brought a fully developed shipyard into Birdon’s growing portfolio of facilities throughout the US, enabling us to provide a broader range of shipbuilding and repair services. This strategic move ensures the successful delivery of the Waterways Commerce Cutter (WCC) Program, a vital component of our $1.187 billion contract to design and build 27 new vessels for the U.S. Coast Guard. The investment in this facility will foster job creation, technological advancement, and economic growth in the region, with up to 165 new jobs expected over the next two years.
- Establishing the Technical Design and Engineering HUB in Henderson, Perth, Western Australia
Birdon has successfully established a Technical Design and Engineering HUB in Henderson, now home to a team of just over 60 employees. This hub will play a crucial role in driving our engineering and design capabilities forward, particularly in the oil and gas decommissioning and defence industries. This initiative aligns with the Henderson strategy released by the WA government, which aims to bolster the region’s industrial capabilities and support sustainable growth.
- Securing Additional International Contracts for Bridge Erection Boats (BEBs)
Birdon has continued to expand its international footprint by securing contracts with the Netherlands, Sweden and Brazil for Bridge Erection Boats (BEBs). This year marks the tenth anniversary since the first BEB was completed for the US. In September this year, the Swedish Defence Material Administration selected Birdon to supply BEBs that will provide wet gap crossing capability during military operations and support disaster relief efforts. The first BEBs will be delivered by February 2025.
- Significant Milestone in the Young Endeavour II Project
We achieved a significant milestone in the Young Endeavour II project with the successful lift and turn of the Below-Waterline (BWL) section in December this year. This achievement reflects the incredible dedication and teamwork that define our organisation, embodying our core value of “Make it Happen.”
- Securing Oil and Gas Decommissioning Projects
Birdon has made significant strides in the Australian oil and gas industry winning several key decommissioning projects, including the destruction and recycling of the Griffin Riser Turret Mooring structures. This achievement aligns with the Australian Government’s recently released decommissioning roadmap, underscoring Birdon’s commitment to leading the way in sustainable and innovative decommissioning solutions.
- Celebrating Award Wins for Sustainable Decommissioning Solutions
Birdon’s innovative and sustainable approach to the decommissioning of the Ex-HMAS Sirius has been recognised with several prestigious awards in 2024. These accolades highlight our commitment to providing sustainable and domestic solutions to decommissioning. Notable awards include the Excellence in Sustainability from the Asset Management Council Australia, Excellence in Innovation from Business NSW, Excellence in Sustainability and Green Economy from Premiers NSW Export Awards, and Outstanding Project from Engineers Australia.
- Achieving Major Design Milestones in the WCC Program
Birdon has met major design milestones in the Critical Design Review (CDR) and set to enter Production Readiness Review (PRR) for the WCC program. The early fabrication works for the first WCC (WLIC) is set to commence in January 2025.
- Entering Full Rate Production for the Motor Lifeboat (MLB) Program
Birdon has successfully entered full rate production on the East Coast in the new full rate production building. We have undertaken and delivered a major redesign of the Open Bridge Console for the USCG and are set to deliver the Technical Data Package (TDP) for the program. Mid-way through the year, the USCG unilaterally optioned another five years on contract, which will ensure up to 117 MLBs can undergo service life extensions and be warranted through 2034. This milestone speaks to the Coast Guard’s confidence in Birdon’s abilities as a major contractor.
- Advancing the Ancillary Surface Connector (ASC) Program
The US Marine Corps has selected Birdon’s Ancillary Surface Connector – Medium (ASC-M) design to advance to the next phases of the Marine Corps Warfighting Lab’s experimentation program. This experimental vessel will inform future capabilities, tactics, and procedures for manoeuvre and sustainment in littoral environments. The ASC-M represents a sea-change to current “surface connectors,” offering self-reliance, optional protective and offensive enhancements, and oceanic transit capability.
- A Refreshed Brand
As our business grows, we have refreshed our brand to reflect who we are today and where we are headed. Since our first dredging contract in Port Macquarie in 1977, we’ve expanded significantly, with locations in Australia, the US, and projects across Europe and Asia. Our new brand aligns with our position as a global leader in maritime solutions, including designing, building, maintaining, and decommissioning. The bold brand and abstract propeller icon mirror Birdon’s maritime ingenuity and forward-thinking. Driven by our founder Jim Bruce’s motto, “Make it Happen,” our team’s can-do attitude remains strong.
Click here for a sneak peak at our Brand Refresh
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Birdon’s achievements in 2024 are a testament to our team’s hard work, dedication, and expertise. We are honoured to be recognised for our efforts and look forward to continuing our mission of providing innovative and sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and the global community. As we move into 2025, we remain committed to advancing best practices, fostering industry collaboration, and driving positive change across the maritime and defence sectors.
