The important maintenance work is now being carried out at the Darwin-based Monadelphous workshop in East Arm. Doing this maintenance work onshore is more efficient, providing greater schedule certainty. 

The first of 11 lifeboats arrived in Darwin in February for its 60‑month major service. 

For INPEX, this shift is creating new pathways for Darwin businesses to support long‑term energy development and build local capability that will serve the region well into the future. 

Importantly, INPEX’s commitment to working with local businesses supports economic resilience in the Territory, fostering jobs, innovation and helping local companies position themselves competitively for future opportunities. 

“Servicing is significantly faster in a controlled onshore environment, reducing turnaround to days,” says Monadelphous Safety Equipment Coordinator Ryan Campbell. 

This is achieved working together with specialist contractor Viking Offshore and drawing on the Darwin-based Monadelphous team’s capability. 

Onshore maintenance of lifeboats highlights INPEX’s contribution as a long‑term partner in helping strengthen the Territory’s supply chain. 

“Bringing this program to Darwin helps strengthen our relationships with local suppliers and supports continued investment in local industry,” says Monadelphous Area Operations Manager Bob Howieson. 

“This includes local equipment and parts suppliers, coxswain and sea trial providers, and other specialist services across the region.” 

INPEX General Manager Northern Territory, Richard Finch, joined Monadelphous Area Operations Manager Bob Howieson and Viking Lead Service Engineer Billy Kidgell to view the lifeboat and acknowledge the strengthened local capability this program brings to Darwin. 

The Monadelphous workshop in Darwin, already has a strong track record in lifeboat maintenance. Expanding this program further enhances local capability in delivering high‑quality servicing. 

“Transitioning this lifeboat servicing program onshore reflects our continued commitment to building capability here in Darwin and strengthening local businesses and local people who support Ichthys LNG’s safe operations,” says Mr Finch.TQ