Emerging exporter (joint) winner

The Whiskey Project Group

Belrose (Eora), New South Wales.

Emerging Exporter (joint) winner - The Whiskey Project Group.

The Whiskey Project Group runs a tight Aussie export ship

21 November 2024

In 5 short years, The Whiskey Project Group (TWPG) has become a global leader and innovator of next-generation watercraft.

TWPG combines Australian maritime special operations experience with decades of New Zealand design excellence. The company designs and builds watercraft that are stronger, safer and more efficient for personnel who risk their lives every day in the maritime environment.

The group is a leading global manufacturer of next-generation multi-mission reconnaissance and tactical watercraft. It has state-of-the-art design and manufacturing facilities along the NSW coast from Yamba through to Sydney. A first-time applicant to the Australian Export Awards, TWPG is the 2024 joint winner of the Emerging Exporter category.

TWPG was founded by former Australian Navy frogmen who set out to ‘create the watercraft they wished they had while serving,’ says Darren Schuback, TWPG’s Chief Executive Officer.

‘Our watercraft are purpose-built to perform in the most challenging conditions, drawing on operational experiences and harnessing the expertise, insights and values of veterans to provide a competitive advantage.’

US Department of Defense success

Last year, following a highly competitive selection program, TWPG was awarded a breakthrough contract with the United States Defense Innovation Unit. The contract was to initially supply vessels for the development of future combatant craft for the US Marine Corps.

‘We went head-to-head with 34 other global specialist military boat companies. We were selected as the number one supplier, and awarded a significant contract by the US DoD,’ says Schuback. ‘All with an Australian designed and manufactured vessel.’

The US Department of Defense contract awarded to TWPG was worth over US$22 million (A$33 million). This figure is forecast to grow significantly in 2024 with the continuation of this program.

The first 12 to 24 months of the program sees the vessels made in NSW and exported to the US. This has meant significant local investment in a skilled regional workforce.

A preferred supplier across Australia and New Zealand

TWPG has grown to be one of the largest suppliers of Australian-made military law enforcement and emergency services vessels in Australia and New Zealand. 

The company is a preferred supplier of high-performance vessels to users across defence, government, rescue and coastguard organisations. It also services world-class patrol, commercial and recreational vessels.

‘We specialise in end-to-end design, manufacturing and sustainment that place the users’ needs at the centre of the design process,’ says Schuback. ‘We provide more than just boats; we deliver solutions to complex maritime challenges.’

Ramping up exports across the globe

TWPG has a track record of supplying its vessels and designs across Australasia and the US. It is set to expand throughout North and South America in the coming year.

‘We are undertaking a deliberate effort to open new alternate markets for our Australian-made vessels,’ says Schuback. ‘This will support our domestic operations’ growth plans, and ensure we have a resilient client base.’

Austrade supports exports during COVID

In mid-2021, TWPG began work on a new craft that would be used to compete in the US Department of Defense tender. This required the company to engage closely with Austrade and the Defence Export Office to exit the country and airfreight the vessel during COVID.

The team has since exhibited the craft at numerous major defence trade events, with the support of the Australian Government. This has seen it develop new partnerships with global defence suppliers.

Success on a global stage requires dogged focus

To support growth into international markets, TWPG looked at ways to improve its supply chain, invest in skills development for its workforce and create a foothold in overseas markets.

‘We’ve found it has been extremely important to apply strict principles to decide if and when you commit the resources to tackle a new market,’ says Schuback.

‘To achieve success on a global stage, we’ve had to stay extremely focussed on what our target markets are and ensure appropriate resources are invested, without getting distracted.’

Cheers to a bright future for this emerging exporter

TWPG’s success in the global market has led to an acceleration of its five-year strategy to reflect the maturing of the organisation and the expected results of the rapid export growth.

‘Naturally, the acceleration of our strategy has been driven by the success with the US Defense contracts, and has led to the need for substantial growth of our US operations,’ says Schuback.

‘As a marine engineering and technology company, we are proud to showcase our world-leading Australian capabilities on the global stage.’

Visit The Whiskey Project Group website.

Emerging Exporter finalists

• Australia Talentail
• Burleigh Wagon
• Geoneon
• HiveIQ - Judges commendation
• MAXM Skate
• Northern Tide Apparel
• Royal Poly Products (joint winner)