In-water hull cleaning system awarded 2014 Golden Gecko

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion tonight presented the State's most prestigious Environmental Excellence Award to joint recipients for a revolutionary in-water hull cleaning system.

The 2014 Golden Gecko Award was presented to Franmarine Underwater Services in Henderson and the Department of Fisheries at a ceremony held in Perth.

The in-water hull cleaning system eradicates bio-fouling of large marine vessels using in-water treatment, vessel encapsulation and cleaning technologies.

"The project recognised here tonight is extremely innovative and shows outstanding commitment to environmental excellence," Mr Marmion said.

"This system has the ability to vastly reduce biosecurity risks and the carbon footprint associated with large marine vessels.

"It promotes a preventative risk-management approach to biosecurity in Australian waters, reduces greenhouse gas emissions from ships, and is an economically compelling alternative for operators."

The same project received a Certificate of Merit at the 2013 Golden Gecko Awards while still in the testing phase.

The Minister also presented a Certificate of Merit to Geo Oceans Pty Ltd in Perth for their 'GO Visions Marine Habitat Mapping and Monitoring Technology' project.

The GO Visions technology is able to rapidly assess and monitor large areas of coastal marine habitats following an oil spill.

"The technology this system employs is both more efficient and accurate than current marine mapping systems and, being diverless, is also safer," Mr Marmion said.

The awards, launched in 1992, recognise excellence and leadership, and acknowledge the outstanding contribution recipients have made to the responsible development of WA's resources.

This year's finalists were Argyle Diamonds Limited in the Kimberley; Environmental Rehabilitation WA in West Perth for their Mt Ida magnetite mine near Menzies; Evolution Mining Edna May Operations in the Wheatbelt; and Newcrest Mining Limited for their Telfer gold mine project in the Pilbara.

Minister's office - 6552 6800