Auriga barge task helps deliver lung screening unit across Top End

AURIGA Marine is transporting Heart of Australia's new Heart 8 mobile lung screening unit to remote Northern Territory communities, with the first voyage departing this week.

The purpose-built healthcare unit, which supports Australia's National Lung Cancer Screening Program, will be carried on Auriga landing barges along with supporting equipment as it begins visits to Maningrida, Milingimbi, Galiwin'ku, Alyangula, Wurrumiyanga and Wadeye.

The operation involves moving specialised rolling stock and medical equipment into communities where marine transport forms an important freight link.

Auriga said it is drawing on its existing Top End network for the project, including four landing barges, a tug-and-barge set and two marine supply bases that support remote logistics operations.

Auriga managing director of maritime Dr Rochelle Macdonald said the company was proud to support the delivery of essential healthcare services to remote communities.

"We are proud to play a role in enabling critical lung screening services to reach communities across the Top End," Dr Macdonald said.

"Our team is deeply experienced in delivering safe, dependable and flexible marine operations in some of the most remote parts of the country. Projects like this demonstrate the value of strong partnerships, Indigenous community engagement and a commitment to operational excellence."

The mobilisation is also being supported by Murin Association Incorporated, which is assisting with the rollout in the Thamarrurr Region.

Murin Association chief executive David Boustead said the collaboration demonstrated how organisations could work together to deliver services to remote communities.

"Heart 8 is an important initiative for Top End communities, and we're proud to have worked alongside Heart of Australia and Auriga Marine to help make its rollout possible," Mr Boustead said.

Auriga said the project reflected continued demand for specialised barge operations to support freight movements and project cargo across northern Australia.